With its glitzy casinos, world-class shows, and lively nightlife, Las Vegas is one of America’s most popular vacation destinations. But timing your Vegas hotel booking just right is key to getting the best rates.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Ideally, you should book Las Vegas hotels 2-3 months in advance for the best deals, combined with flexibility on dates.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide tips on the optimal time to book a Vegas hotel based on season, events, demand, and more. You’ll learn how far in advance savvy travelers lock in the cheapest rates, when last-minute deals pop up, and strategies to score deals on Vegas hotels year-round.
Overview of Vegas Hotel Rates by Season
Booking a hotel in Vegas at the right time can make a significant difference in your travel budget. The rates of hotels in Vegas can vary greatly depending on the season. Understanding the different seasons and their impact on hotel rates can help you plan your trip more effectively.
High season
The high season in Las Vegas typically falls during holidays, special events, and weekends. This is when the city is bustling with tourists, conventions, and entertainment shows.
Hotel rates tend to be at their highest during this time, so it’s important to book well in advance if you’re planning to visit during these peak periods. The high season includes holidays such as New Year’s Eve, the Fourth of July, and major sporting events like the Super Bowl.
According to data from Vegas.com, hotel rates during the high season can be up to 50% higher compared to other times of the year. It’s not uncommon to see prices skyrocket during these peak periods, so booking early is crucial to secure the best rates.
Low season
The low season in Vegas typically occurs during the summer months, when temperatures can reach scorching levels. This is the time when hotels offer great deals and discounts to attract visitors. If you don’t mind the heat, booking a hotel during the low season can save you a significant amount of money.
According to Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, hotel rates during the low season can be as much as 30-40% lower compared to the high season. This is a great opportunity for budget-conscious travelers to experience all that Vegas has to offer without breaking the bank.
Shoulder seasons
The shoulder seasons, which fall between the high and low seasons, offer a balance between reasonable rates and enjoyable weather. These seasons typically include spring and fall, when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller compared to the high season.
During the shoulder seasons, hotels in Vegas often offer competitive rates to attract visitors. This can be a great time to visit if you’re looking for a good deal without compromising on the overall experience.
Booking a hotel during the shoulder season allows you to enjoy moderate temperatures and avoid the large crowds that come with the high season.
How Far Out to Book for Major Events
CES
When it comes to major events in Las Vegas, CES (Consumer Electronics Show) is definitely at the top of the list. With thousands of exhibitors and attendees from all over the world, finding a hotel room during CES can be quite challenging.
It is recommended to book your hotel at least six months in advance to secure your desired accommodations. Many hotels in Las Vegas offer special CES packages, so make sure to check their websites for the best deals.
Additionally, consider staying at a hotel that is close to the Las Vegas Convention Center, where CES takes place, to save time and transportation costs.
March Madness
March Madness is another highly anticipated event in Las Vegas, especially for sports enthusiasts. With multiple games happening simultaneously and fans flocking to the city, it is important to plan ahead for this event.
Booking your hotel room at least three to four months in advance is recommended to ensure availability and to secure the best rates. Some hotels even offer special March Madness packages, including access to viewing parties and sportsbooks.
Don’t miss out on the excitement of March Madness, book your hotel early and get ready to cheer on your favorite teams!
Pool Season
Las Vegas is known for its vibrant pool party scene, especially during the summer months. If you’re planning to visit during pool season, which typically runs from March to October, it is crucial to book your hotel well in advance.
Popular pool party venues like Encore Beach Club, Wet Republic, and Marquee Dayclub attract large crowds, and hotels with pool access can fill up quickly. To secure a spot at your preferred hotel with a pool, it is recommended to book at least two to three months in advance.
This will ensure that you have a great spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the poolside festivities.
New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas is a legendary celebration that attracts revelers from around the world. The Strip transforms into a massive outdoor party, with fireworks lighting up the sky and world-class entertainment taking center stage.
To experience the excitement of New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas, it is advisable to book your hotel at least six months in advance. Many hotels offer special New Year’s Eve packages that include access to exclusive parties and events.
By booking early, you’ll have a prime location to ring in the new year and create unforgettable memories.
Insider Tips for Finding Cheap Vegas Hotel Rates
Planning a trip to Las Vegas and wondering when is the best time to book a hotel? Look no further! Here are some insider tips to help you find cheap Vegas hotel rates and make the most of your budget.
Be flexible on weekdays
If you’re looking to save money on your Vegas hotel stay, consider being flexible with your travel dates. Weekdays typically have lower hotel rates compared to weekends when the demand is higher. By booking your stay from Sunday to Thursday instead of Friday to Sunday, you can often find significant discounts.
According to a study conducted by Travelocity, the average hotel price in Las Vegas drops by about 15% from Monday to Thursday. So, if you can adjust your schedule, you’ll not only save money but also avoid the crowds that usually flock to Vegas on weekends.
Check for deals on apps
With the rise of mobile apps, finding great deals on Vegas hotel rates has never been easier. Many travel apps like Expedia and Booking.com offer exclusive discounts and special rates for their app users.
Downloading these apps and keeping an eye out for flash sales or last-minute deals can help you snag a fantastic hotel rate.
Additionally, some apps also provide price alerts, notifying you when the rates for your desired hotel drop. This way, you can book your stay at the optimal time, maximizing your savings.
Consider downtown hotels
While the Las Vegas Strip is undoubtedly the most popular area for tourists, staying at a downtown hotel can often be a more affordable option. Downtown hotels like the Golden Nugget or the Plaza Hotel offer competitive rates and are just a short distance away from the Strip.
Not only will you save on hotel expenses, but you’ll also have the chance to explore the vibrant downtown area, filled with unique dining options, vintage casinos, and a lively atmosphere. Plus, if you do want to experience the Strip, it’s just a quick cab or Uber ride away.
Watch for resort fee waivers
Resort fees are a common additional charge in Vegas hotels, covering amenities like Wi-Fi, pool access, and gym facilities. These fees can significantly increase the overall cost of your stay. However, some hotels occasionally offer promotions that waive these resort fees or include them in the room rate.
Keep an eye on the hotel’s website or sign up for their newsletter to stay updated on any current promotions. By taking advantage of resort fee waivers, you can enjoy the full Vegas experience without breaking the bank.
Remember, when it comes to booking a hotel in Vegas, a little bit of flexibility and research can go a long way. By following these insider tips and utilizing the right resources, you’ll be able to find cheap Vegas hotel rates and make the most of your trip.
Booking Last Minute Vegas Hotel Deals
When it comes to booking a hotel in Las Vegas, timing can make a significant difference in both availability and price. While some travelers prefer to plan well in advance, others thrive on the excitement of booking last minute.
If you fall into the latter category, here are some tips to help you secure great last-minute hotel deals in Sin City.
Using bidding apps
One popular strategy for snagging last-minute hotel deals in Vegas is to use bidding apps. These apps allow you to place bids on unsold rooms, often at a significant discount. You simply enter the dates and location you desire, set your maximum bid, and wait to see if your offer is accepted.
Some popular bidding apps to consider include Priceline and Hotwire. Remember, though, that with this approach, you may not know the hotel you’re booking until after your bid is accepted.
Checking for unsold rooms
Another strategy to consider is checking for unsold rooms directly through hotel websites or third-party booking platforms. Hotels often have a certain number of rooms that go unsold, and they may offer these at discounted rates closer to the date of arrival.
Keep an eye out for flash sales or promotions that may be advertised on the hotel’s website or through travel websites.
Additionally, you can use hotel comparison websites like Trivago or Kayak to find the best deals across multiple platforms.
Traveling mid-week
One way to increase your chances of finding last-minute hotel deals in Vegas is to travel mid-week instead of on weekends. Many hotels in Las Vegas experience a higher demand on weekends, leading to higher prices and limited availability.
By choosing to travel on a Tuesday or Wednesday, for example, you may find more options and better rates. Plus, you’ll avoid the crowds that tend to flock to the city on weekends.
Booking downtown
If you’re open to exploring beyond the famous Las Vegas Strip, consider booking a hotel downtown. Downtown Vegas offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with its own array of casinos, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Not only can you find great last-minute deals in this area, but you’ll also be within walking distance of popular attractions like the Fremont Street Experience. Plus, downtown hotels often have lower resort fees compared to those on the Strip.
By using bidding apps, checking for unsold rooms, traveling mid-week, or booking downtown, you can increase your chances of finding great last-minute hotel deals in Las Vegas. Remember to be flexible with your dates and consider alternative locations to make the most of your stay in Sin City without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
To summarize, the ideal time to book Las Vegas hotels is 2-3 months in advance for the best rates and availability.
But being flexible on dates and knowing when to pounce on last-minute deals can also lead to big savings.
With smart timing and savvy strategies, you can unlock amazing Vegas hotel rates no matter when you want to visit Sin City.
