Priceline Hotel: Should I wait until the last minute to book?

[stay4cheap]

When I look at prices in downtown chicago I see big fluctuations based on what day I look at.  I have noticed that most short term prices...tomorrow or this weekend...are quite low, as are most prices out more than a month.   I am wondering if this is a common trend and I can save money by waiting until the last minute to book. 

 

I have used this practice with sporting events with some success when I think the game is unlikely to sell out. 

 

We are vacation in a couple weeks and our plans are flexible. 

[AaronJB]

You can find a discussion regarding this subject under the FAQ. With the ramp up in demand in recent years, there has been less in the way of last minute deals. There is also the definite possibility that prices can go the other way (and do so in a hurry) if there is something going on during your stay and/or traffic comes in higher than expected.

 

If you need assistance with your stay, please provide the specifics of the trip (dates of travel, desired budget per night/star rating, acceptable zones and any other information.)

 

Thank you for using the board's HOTWIRE or PRICELINE links to start your purchases and searches.

[thereuare]

It's also quite possible that the near dates you're looking at are slow in Chicago and therefore rates are lower... whereas the further dates you're considering are busier and therefore have higher rates; the difference in prices you're seeing my have nothing to do with how near/far away your trip is and are possibly attributable to events/conferences/etc that are taking place on the future dates you're checking.

Please use the PRICELINE and HOTWIRE links on the board to begin your travel purchases.

[dahammer]

One of the problems with Chicago is when a large trade show is booked at the McCormick Center, rates probably will go up as dates get closer. I played this game two years ago and actually had to book a room at a hostel, every hotel was sold out. Thankfully, hurricane Sandy cancelled my flights and I didn't have to share a bathroom down the hall from my single room. There is a large trade show from November 2-5 that will probably come close to selling out local hotels and may force attendees to stay out by the airports. I would check with the convention and visitors bureau, good luck.