Last-minute travel websites that go the extra mile

It goes without saying that planning for the holidays can be a stressful affair, especially when last-minute plans need to be made. From rushing to book reservations to last minute flights and bookings, there are plenty of useful sites specifically designed to cater to spontaneous adventures.

Preliminary preparation 

Before we list our favourite sites, bear in mind that while last-minute plans can be made easily, there are a few details you need to consider before making that final decision. First of all, be flexible. Last-minute planning is generally more costly so don't be afraid to mix and match both destination and dates in order to get the best possible deal.

Always have at least two or three alternative destinations in mind and finalise your plans according to which destination or dates are the most convenient in terms of travel distance and standard of accommodation.

Finally, ensure that your mode of transportation has been chosen in advance. While most people would more likely prefer to drive to the last minute destinations, there are certain local spots that may offer well-priced airfares depending on their frequency. 

In order to help take the stress out of last-minute planning, we've highlighted five helpful websites that will definitely streamline the process.

Last Minute Lodges

Founded in 2003 under the trading name of KDR Travel and Tours, Last Minute Lodges evolved from a conventional travel agency into a fast and convenient booking site in 2015. With an abundance of travel experience from professionals collected over almost two decades of trading, this particular site has found the perfect balance between person to person contact and the booking conveniences of an online agency.

Now operating under the parent trading company Southern Routes Travel and Tours, Last Minute Lodges has physical offices based in Durban meaning there is always somebody to contact should issues arise.

Check out their holiday listings here - Last Minute Lodges

Pentravel

Pentravel has been trading as a successful travel agency since 1983 under the motto, "a place where people want to work, and customers love doing business." Since Pentravel has both a physical and online presence, you can rest assured that there is always someone to contact should things go awry.

What sets Pentravel apart from the others is that it has a proven record of excellent service with impeccable client liaison. Their reputation for excellence is supported by a vast collection of individual reviews and financial backing from Cullinan Holdings and The Travel Corp which means the logistics behind your travel plans are in safe hands.

Check out their holiday listings here - Pentravel

SA Venues

This nifty website operates as a comprehensive travel assistant which collates data and information from a number of different sites. This method of contrasting and comparing venue prices and travel costs is perfect for anyone looking for the best deals at short notice. 

From information on popular destinations to area profiles on each province in South Africa, SA Venues operates as a middle man for every aspect of planning a vacation from flights and creating an itinerary, to accommodation.

Check out their holiday listings here - SA-Venues

Google Travel

While not necessarily a comprehensive travel agency, Google Travel is an excellent tool that collects information from airlines, agencies, and booking venues in order to display the cheapest average cost. Google Travel is great for making preliminary decisions for trips as well as providing availability for hotels and lodges within the area.

Google travel has an easy to use interface which works intuitively from selecting your destination, checking out the local scene, booking your travel plans, and finalising with your preferred travel agency.

Check out their interface here - Google Travel

Flight Center

Perhaps the largest travel retailer in the world, Flight Centre is an international and globally recognised company that prides itself in providing amazing travel experiences From Los Angeles to Hanoi and back home. 

As the travel industry continues to recover from a global pandemic, companies like Flight Center offer exclusive packages for business owners and entrepreneurs in order to ensure that your flight plans follow through. Flight Centre has created an independent model that caters to both individuals and small to medium-sized companies in the form of their corporate Flight Centre Independent package.

When it comes to finalising plans, no matter how short notice, Flight Centre guarantees unforgettable service.

Check out their interface here - Flight Centre

Read our previous article here: https://www.hamiltons.co.za/news/holiday-gifts-from-ornate-collectables-to-stylish-tech-pieces/ 

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