Early vs. Last-Minute Bookings: Planning Your Myrtle Beach Vacation

If your daydreams include sandy toes, a refreshing drink in hand, and the sound of waves in the background, a Myrtle Beach vacation can make your dreams come true! But the real question is...to book or not to book? Deciding when to book a vacation can feel like a strategy all on its own. Last-minute bookings have become a recent trend in the Hospitality Industry, with a large portion of the population waiting 1-3 months before arrival to make a reservation. Booking early or waiting last-minute can affect pricing, availability, and also your peace of mind.

Here's a breakdown of advantages and disadvantages to help you decide what's best for your beach vacation!

Early Bookings: Get the Worm

✅ Pros:

1. Get What You Want
   When you book early, there will be a wider selection of properties, which is important if you have specific needs, set dates or you're planning a large group vacation.
2. More Time to Make Payments
   Elliott Beach Rentals requires a deposit to be due within 7 days from booking, with the remaining balance due 30 days prior to arrival. When you book early, you have time to make smaller payments throughout the year, if you need to.
3. Peace of Mind
   Vacation planning can be stressful, but when you book early there is a sense of relief that what you want is already reserved. If you have questions or concerns there is time to ask and get all the information needed without feeling rushed.

❌ Cons:

1. Little Discounting Available
   When booking in advance there isn't a ton of discounting available, however, Elliott Beach Rentals is committed to offering the best prices, and will meet and beat any reasonable advertised price.
2. Cancellation Periods
   Life can be unpredictable, and when you book in advance, you’re committing to those dates no matter what may arise. It's important to understand the company's cancellation policy and make sure you know your options if you do need to cancel.
3. Rigid Booking Guidelines
   Elliott Beach Rentals follows a booking guideline for different time periods throughout the year. In the summer months, most properties book Saturday- Saturday, with some exceptions. If you're looking for a shorter stay, it limits what's available when you book ahead.

Last- Minute Bookings: Get a Surprise

✅ Pros:

1. Better Pricing
   As it gets closer to the arrival date, you're more likely to get a better discount on the property. If you have tight funds for your vacation, waiting until the last minute may help you stay within your ideal budget.
2. Flexible Stay Lengths
   If you aren't able to take off a whole week and are only looking to stay for a few nights, calling last-minute can provide more flexibility with the length of stay allowed.
3. Vacation Sooner
   When you book last-minute you have less time to wait for your vacation! Instead of months, your vacation countdown is only a few weeks! When burnout hits, a quick, spontaneous getaway is just what the doctor ordered.

❌Cons:

1. Limited Availability
   Last-minute booking can limit your options, and you may have to settle for something other than you first pick.
2. Last Minute Travel Plans
   Coordinating travel plans can add extra stress to a vacation, especially if you need to book a flight or arrange for childcare or pet sitters.
3. Less Time for Payments
   Depending on when you make your reservation, payment may be required at time of booking. Elliott Beach Rentals requires full payment if you book less than 30 days before arrival.

💡Tips:

• Subscribe to email lists and be the first to know about exclusive specials!
• Do your research! Whether you book early or wait, it's still important to learn about the area and what properties we have on our inventory.
• Give us a call! We will try our best to find the perfect rental in your price range, answer any questions you may have and provide our professional opinion on properties.