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When can I get the cheapest hotel deals?
According to travel website Away.com, the cheapest time to book a hotel room is the day before you arrive, for which you'll clearly need nerves of steel, or lady luck on your side as many sought-after resorts and hotels will have much-reduced availability by then. If you're travelling off-peak or mid-week, it's worth a punt...
Rachel England, journalist -
How can I get a room upgrade for free?
Whenever you book, go for the cheapest room available (that you'd still be happy staying in, mind) and in the 'special requirements' box ask - nicely - for an upgrade, or spin a touching yarn about a birthday or anniversary. If there's availability, they're likely to upgrade you
Rachel England, journalist -
Think carefully about your holiday packing
Lay out everything you've got and think 'what do I really need?' There are very few places in the world where you can't buy the stuff you need. Everyone wants their own home comforts, but you'll quickly realise you won't want them when you're there
Phoebe Smith, experienced backpacker and features editor at Trail Magazine -
Why do I need travel insurance?
Medical treatment can cost a fortune when you're abroad and bills for tests and hospital stays can run into thousands of pounds, so don't take the risk for the sake of a few pounds. Get yourself and your family covered
Jeremy Cryer, Gocompare.com
Why choose Gocompare.com's hotels comparison service?
With the help of Our Holiday Centre* you can compare hotels - or hotel and flight packages - from thousands of destinations in one quick and easy search, then book online. By comparing hotel prices you can rest assured that you're finding accommodation that offers value for money at your chosen destination.
If you feel you need more information before making a decision, try our hotel guides
If you click the 'Get prices' button above for hotels, you'll be asked to enter your planned destination, your arrival date and departure date. Choose your preferred star rating, or search from all available options, and there's the opportunity to look at any board, self-catering, bed and breakfast, half-board, full-board and/or all-inclusive accommodation.
The results page will show the star rating of the accommodation, the price, an overview, description, photographs, map location and any special deals. You'll have the opportunity to further refine your search or, if you see a hotel deal you like, to purchase online.
If you feel you need more information before making a decision, try our hotel guides where you'll also find the answers to frequently asked questions.
Learn more about the different room and board options, and the definitions of the main hotel classifications - budget, hotel chains, independent hotels and boutique hotels. There's also guidance on how to find the right accommodation, and some useful money-saving tips.
Did you know...?
- 47% of UK travellers aged 18-34 take their laptop on holiday with them**
- 92% take their mobile or smartphone**
- 46% can't relax if they're not able to check their emails on holiday**


