When is the best time to book a hotel room?

Hello. I’m 24 years old and haven’t had a vacation by plane in a long time. I’ve been to many places, but usually someone else has planned or helped with the trip. This time, I’m going solo.

I’m going to a wedding in Key West for one of my best friends from high school. He’s having the wedding at a fantastic hotel and had a promo code for a big discount, but it looks like the hotel only offered that promo for a limited number of rooms. I’ve already booked my flight and sorted out other details; now I just need to book the hotel.

My question is for all you experienced travelers or those who know how to save a few bucks: When do you usually book your hotels? I’ve heard mixed advice on when to get the best rates. Some say to book 15 days in advance, others say to wait until the last minute when hotels might offer discounts on canceled rooms, and some recommend booking two months ahead.

So, in your opinion, when is the best time to book a hotel room?

Sanity > a few dollars. Look around for more affordable accommodations and economize there. Your dearest friend’s wedding is taking place this weekend. If there are celebrations, try to get the cheapest room at the same hotel; if not, find a less expensive place to stay. On the other hand, you might keep worrying about how to save a little money for something you have already decided on.

In the last several months, I was a groomsman at a friend’s wedding and experienced the same thing. In the end, I decided to just eat the expense and do something in the same hotel without using a promo code. Celebrate this important day with a particular friend by taking part in the events and basking in the Moment.

10 days, 5 hours, 37 minutes, 39 seconds

There is no consistent ideal time to book because hotel prices fluctuate based on demand rather than time.