So, you’ve woken up with that itch. No, not the one that requires calamine lotion – the one that whispers “Get me out of here. Now.” Whether it’s the sudden need for sea air, a mountain escape, or simply the thrill of hopping on a plane without a spreadsheet, last-minute travel can be magical. It can also be mildly chaotic if you don’t know what you’re doing.

But panic not. With a little savvy know-how, a dash of digital wizardry, and a willingness to embrace spontaneity, your impromptu escape can be both seamless and soul-nourishing. Here’s your go-to guide for pulling off a last-minute getaway without losing your mind (or your luggage).

1. Use your points like a pro (and know what you’re using)

Let’s talk treasure: your credit card points and frequent flyer miles. Whether you’re racking up Avios with British Airways or have a stash of Amex Membership Rewards gathering dust, now’s the time to cash in. But before you book that flight to Florence, it’s key to understand what you’re actually using.

Avios are BA’s loyalty currency and can be used to book flights, cabin upgrades, and even hotel stays. Just note: while Avios can stretch your travel budget, upgrades aren’t always guaranteed and are often only available on specific fare types or for elite flyers.

BA recently shifted parts of its loyalty system to put more emphasis on Avios – moving away from traditional Tier Points. So, while you can still earn elite status, the path may look a bit different now than it did pre-2024. Check BA’s Executive Club site for the latest updates before planning a big spend.

Pro tip: Compare the Avios cost of a flight to the cash price to ensure you’re getting real value. And check sites like The Points Guy UK – a travel site dedicated to demystifying loyalty programmes – for up-to-date Avios valuations and tips on how to get the best bang for your (air)buck.

2. Never, ever skip travel insurance

We know, it’s not glamorous. But comprehensive travel insurance is your invisible superhero cape. Booking at the last minute means plans can change quickly – and cancellations, lost luggage, or unexpected medical hiccups are far less cute when you’re not covered.

Watch out: Insurance offered by airlines at checkout may only cover flights. For proper peace of mind, go for a standalone policy that covers health, delays, and cancellations – especially if you’re heading off-grid or somewhere spicy (both culinary and political).

3. Book smart and safe

In a sea of too-good-to-be-true deals, some really are just that—too good to be true. If a random site you’ve never heard of is offering a five-star hotel in Santorini for £11 a night, run (don’t walk) in the opposite direction.

Pro tip: Always book using a credit card for built-in protection. Not only do you rack up points, but you’re also legally covered if something goes pear-shaped. Also, double-check that the company is ABTA or ATOL protected. It’s not sexy, but it is smart.

4. Go direct (when it makes sense)

While third-party sites like Expedia or Booking.com can have great last-minute deals, airlines and hotel chains often reward loyalty – and direct bookings.

The secret sauce: Hotels sometimes offer ‘best price guarantees’ when booking directly, and chains like Marriott or Hilton often throw in perks (hello, free breakfast). But don’t rule out online travel agents (OTAs); they often have discount codes and bundles that include flights, hotel, and even car hire for less than the cost of one.

5. Use the right apps

Technology is your co-pilot. Load up your phone with a few clever apps and newsletters and you’ll always be a step ahead.

Top picks:

• The Points Guy UK – for expert tips and alerts on flight deals.

• Hopper – predicts the best time to buy tickets.

• Skyscanner – ideal for flexible destinations (“Everywhere” is a real option, and it’s a joy).

• HotelTonight – incredible for last-minute hotel bookings.

• ExpertFlyer – perfect for award ticket alerts, seat maps, and flight availability.

Set notifications and let the travel fairy dust sprinkle itself.

6. Time your booking like a ninja

There’s no exact science here – cheap fares are the unicorns of the travel world. But flexibility is your best friend.

Insider info: Midweek bookings (Tuesday or Wednesday) often have better availability and lower prices. And travelling on a Tuesday or Saturday? Usually cheaper than peak days like Friday or Sunday. If you’re flying long-haul, try adding a Saturday night stay – it often unlocks lower fare buckets. Yes, airlines have secrets. No, they won’t tell you.

7. Get creative with your departure airport

Your nearest airport might not be the best deal. Widen your search radius – you might find a business-class seat to Rome from Manchester that costs less than an economy ticket from Heathrow.

Flexi-hack: Be willing to take a train or coach to a different airport. It can save you hundreds – and sometimes, the train journey itself becomes part of the adventure. Just pack snacks and a podcast.

8. Be flexible with seating (and friends)

When you’re booking last-minute, there’s a fair chance you won’t get your favourite seat – or even sit next to your travel buddies.

Keep in mind: This is the trade-off for spontaneity. Embrace it. Bring headphones, download a show, and channel your inner lone wolf for the flight. You’ll reunite at the hotel bar, probably with a better story to tell.

9. Dodge rip-offs with a little due diligence

No one likes hidden fees. Especially the kind that sneak up on you at the airport when you realise your airline charges £45 to print a boarding pass.

Stay sharp: Check luggage allowances, boarding pass policies, and visa requirements before booking. Use promo codes, loyalty points, and cash-back sites to shave a little off the cost – and check comparison sites for added confidence before booking.

10. Embrace the chaos, gracefully

Yes, your room might not have a sea view. Your flight might leave from an airport with only one Pret. But what you lose in meticulous planning, you gain in serendipity.

Spontaneous travel is about surrendering control. It’s about showing up and seeing what happens. And let’s be honest: those are often the best trips – the ones you didn’t obsessively plan or overthink.

Final boarding call

The next time the travel bug bites and your calendar looks miraculously empty, go for it. With a little prep, a few tricks up your sleeve, and an open mind, a last-minute trip can be just what your soul needs.

So book the ticket. Pack the essentials. And don’t forget your toothbrush (or your passport – seriously, check now).

Happy travels, fellow wanderer. See you at the departure gate!