Pros and cons of not booking accommodation beforehand
Travelling without booking every night can create wonderful freedom, but it can also backfire during busy periods or in remote destinations.
Travelling without booking accommodation in advance can be an enjoyable way to explore a destination, particularly if you prefer deciding where to go and how long to stay as your holiday unfolds. You might discover a small town worth exploring, decide to spend another night somewhere you particularly enjoy or change your route after a recommendation from a local.
For travellers who enjoy this kind of freedom, having no fixed reservations can be part of the appeal. However, there are circumstances where arriving without somewhere to sleep can turn an otherwise enjoyable day into a frustrating search for accommodation.
When travelling without bookings works
Outside peak holiday periods, finding accommodation along the way may be relatively straightforward, particularly in areas with several towns and a reasonable selection of guesthouses, hotels and other places to stay.
Experienced road-trippers who know the region and are comfortable adjusting their plans may find this approach particularly convenient. It also allows travellers to consider smaller guesthouses and farm stays they might otherwise have overlooked when planning their trip online.
The biggest advantage is being able to change your plans without worrying about losing money on prepaid accommodation. If you enjoy a particular destination, you can stay longer, while places that don't appeal to you needn't take up more of your holiday than necessary.
When advance bookings make more sense
School holidays, long weekends, festivals and the December and January holiday season are a different matter. Popular destinations can fill up well in advance, leaving travellers with fewer accommodation options and potentially higher prices.
The Garden Route, for example, attracts large numbers of domestic holidaymakers during December and January. Arriving without a reservation during this period can mean spending hours looking for somewhere to stay, particularly if you have specific accommodation requirements or a limited budget.
Travelling to remote areas also requires more planning. Unlike a route through several towns, where alternative accommodation may be available a short drive away, remote destinations often have limited facilities. National parks, safari camps and popular mountain lodges may have very few alternatives nearby, making advance reservations advisable.
Finding a balance between planning and flexibility
You don't necessarily have to choose between booking every night of your holiday and making no arrangements at all. A practical option is to reserve accommodation for the first few nights, especially when arriving after an international flight, and leave the remainder of the trip more flexible.
You could also look for accommodation offering cancellation policies that allow changes to your itinerary, although it's important to check the conditions before booking. Your destination, travelling companions and the time of year should influence how much you arrange beforehand. Families with young children, travellers with accessibility requirements and anyone visiting during busy holiday periods may find that confirmed accommodation makes the journey considerably easier.
If you're planning a trip that includes popular attractions or accommodation with limited availability, book those portions in advance and allow more flexibility elsewhere. You can still take an unexpected detour, explore a town that catches your interest or extend your stay where availability allows.
Travelling spontaneously can be rewarding, but it works best when you understand the accommodation options along your route and are prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.
Anchen Coetzee
Lynette Spencer
Naomi Roebert
Liz Thorne
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