Shoutout to the hostel worker who told me booking 3 weeks ahead is a trap

I was in Berlin last month chatting with this guy at the front desk of a hostel. He said booking hostels more than 2 or 3 weeks out often costs way more because prices drop closer to the date when rooms don't fill up. But on the other hand, I've also been burned waiting too long and ended up paying double for a last minute bed. So which is better for budget travel, booking early for peace of mind or gambling on last minute deals? What do you all think?

3 comments

3 Comments

uma_webb281mo ago

Yeah totally agree! Had the same thing in Prague where I booked a dorm 3 weeks out for like 40€ a night then saw the same bed for 15€ a few days before.

matthew8641mo ago

That Prague price drop is brutal. Really makes you wonder if it's better to just wait.

taylorhunt2d ago

Yeah the "just wait" thing is interesting. I used to be all about booking early to lock in a good deal, but seeing that price drop from 40€ to 15€ kind of changes my mind. Maybe it's worth gambling a bit if you're flexible.