My family's guidebook era vs. my screen-only travel style

My parents planned whole trips with those thick paper guidebooks and calling hotels (long distance calls, remember those?). I just tap on my phone for everything from hostels to bus tickets. They think advance planning is the only way to save, but I've gotten lower prices by booking things day-of. Which camp are you in, the thorough planners or the go-with-the-flow types (and which actually keeps more money in your pocket)?

4 comments

4 Comments

alice_king661mo ago

So my friend saved a lot on a Madrid hotel by booking that afternoon.

ray_sullivan13d ago

Oh man, my "go with the flow" once landed me in a hostel that smelled like wet dog and regret. I spent what I saved on the room buying enough air freshener to choke a horse. My mom's guidebook method at least would have warned her about the "unique aroma." I'm stuck in the middle, planning just enough to avoid a stinky surprise but leaving room for a last-minute deal that doesn't smell like a kennel.

thea6021mo ago

My spontaneous stay in Prague cost me 20 euros a night by booking that afternoon. I'm with you on the go-with-the-flow style saving money. Hotels and transport apps have made it so easy to find deals when others cancel. Sure, planning has its place, but my wallet is happier with flexibility.

iris_hall1mo ago

Twenty euros a night in Prague? That sounds like the travel fairy waved her wand just for you. My version of going with the flow usually means paying fifty extra bucks for a room next to the ice machine because everything else is sold out. The apps show me deals, just not the kind that leaves my wallet happy. Guess my flow is broken.