New data from hotel management system Sirvoy has revealed the destinations with the highest proportions of last-minute accommodation bookings, with Thailand securing the top position.
Sirvoy analysed its customer base of independent hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, hostels, and holiday rentals across more than 140 countries to identify where the highest proportions of short-notice reservations occur. The study defined last-minute bookings as reservations made within seven days of check-in, while also tracking those made on the same or following day.
Top 10 last-minute destinations
Every country in the top 10 recorded more than half of its accommodation bookings within seven days of arrival
| Rank | Vacation Destination | Bookings Within 7 Days of Check-in | Bookings on Same or Next Day |
| 1 | Thailand | 74.8% | 56.8% |
| 2 | Philippines | 71.7% | 53.0% |
| 3 | Australia | 61.2% | 36.8% |
| 4 | Mexico | 59.7% | 40.7% |
| 5 | New Zealand | 58.3% | 32.9% |
| 6 | Indonesia | 55.8% | 35.4% |
| 7 | Norway | 53.8% | 39.1% |
| 8 | Finland | 53.3% | 31.8% |
| 9 | Netherlands | 52.3% | 33.9% |
| 10 | Sweden | 51.9% | 30.9% |
As summer draws to a close in the northern hemisphere, many people seek a spontaneous getaway. Warm weather is a key draw for the top four destinations as autumn approaches in other regions.
Thailand offers warm, sunny weather and relaxing beaches. Reports note that the current period coincides with monsoon season, meaning rainfall may accompany the heat, alongside lower prices. The Philippines similarly offers warm weather, good value for food and activities, and expected rain continuing in many areas until at least October.
Australia suits spontaneous trips with surfing, swimming, and vibrant cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, where early spring temperatures already reach the low 20s Celsius. Mexico offers options ranging from white-sand beaches to ancient ruins, while fifth-placed New Zealand appeals to adventure-focused breaks with dramatic mountains, lakes, and rich forests.
The ranking also features four European nations: Norway, Finland, the Netherlands, and Sweden. Their presence offers closer options for European-based travellers who prefer shorter journeys while still booking spontaneously.
Nichlas Linderborg, Chief Customer Officer of Sirvoy, commented on the findings: “Travelers are embracing spontaneity when booking their next vacation, with every destination in the top 10 seeing more than half of its accommodation bookings made within seven days of check-in.”
“Warm weather is clearly an appealing factor, with the countries in the top spots, Thailand, the Philippines, Australia, and Mexico, offering last-minute sun while the US, UK, and much of Europe enter the colder season.”
The findings suggest that digital booking tools are making short-notice travel easier for holidaymakers seeking sun or scenery, highlighting continued interest in flexible planning rather than making reservations far in advance.