Looking for a hotel room at the last minute can lead to several issues, both related to availability and cost.
Here are the main critical points:
1. Low room availability
• Hotels may already be full, especially in high season, during local events (fairs, concerts, festivals, conferences), or on weekends.
• Even when rooms are available, often only the least popular types remain (very small rooms, without windows, or the most expensive ones, such as suites).
2. Higher prices
• Many hotels apply dynamic pricing: when availability decreases, prices increase.
• At the last minute, you have less choice and less opportunity to compare favorable rates.
3. Fewer choices
• The hotel's location may not be ideal (too far from the city center or public transportation).
• Some requested amenities (breakfast included, parking, free Wi-Fi) may not be available in the few remaining rooms.
4. Stress and uncertainty
• You risk wasting a lot of time searching, especially if you're already there.
• There's always the uncertainty of not finding anything and having to resort to less convenient options (hostels, makeshift bed & breakfasts, private apartments).
5. Booking restrictions
• Some hotels require minimum stays of several nights, so even if a room is available, you can't always book for just one night.
• Sometimes, cancellations or refunds are not accepted on last-minute bookings.
