Aching for a last-minute break? There’s always time to book one, especially with our handy tips.

Ever wished you could be one of those cool, care-free travellers who seem to jet off on a whim at a moment’s notice? Our tips can get you started on that journey, and save you a bit of money along the way too.

Use a travel agent

Yes travel agents are still a thing and can be the perfect way to get your last-minute trip organised without doing any of the work. They can do pretty much all of the legwork for you, except the bit where you go on holiday – that’s all you.

Walk into your local high-street branch or talk to them over the phone and they’ll get all aspects of your trip for you – including the obvious flights and hotel, but also your holiday extras like parking and transfers – in a neat little bow. This is particularly ideal if you’re planning something last minute as they’ll be able to find you the best prices and save you the time of having to search for them yourself. Plus if you’re nice they might even throw in a freebie.

Be flexible

Flexibility is key when booking last minute. And this doesn’t just mean in terms of when you go, but also where and to some extent how. Last-minute can mean any time from 10 weeks before, so keep a vague idea of what date you’d like and think about the type of holiday you want. Whether it’s fly-and-flop or a city break that you’re after, the flights available in that time period may well dictate where you go.

This can actually be a good way to jet off somewhere you might not have thought of. Or book a different kind of trip entirely – cruise ships absolutely hate sailing with empty cabins.

The 14-day rule

If you want to take ‘last-minute’ more literally then you can always try and play the 14-day rule. This is a sort of unwritten expectation that hotels and airlines will drastically cut their costs in an effort to fill seats and rooms in the two weeks beforehand. This does mean there’ll be less choice of where to go, but if you play it right you could find yourself enjoying a luxury break for a fraction of the price.

Do ‘anywhere’ searches

By this we mean get onto Google Flights or Skyscanner and search using just dates. Skyscanner’s ‘explore everywhere’ button will suggest a full manifest of flights that you can sort by price and other handy filters. It even uses AI to suggest destinations based on vibes – like beach, city, art & culture, and good food.

Google offers a similar service. But it also provides tons of data to make use of as well if you really want to fall down a rabbit hole. It can tell you how cheap the flights are compared to other searches and also gives you the option to track them so you can decide the best time to book. You can even look at past trends to make an educated guess on when the best prices will be available.

Don’t forget the essentials

Just because you’re going last-minute that doesn’t mean you should skip the important stuff like insurance. It may well end up being cheaper than usual as you’ll be booking it last-minute too – this is because you won’t need the cancellation cover for as long.

Also if you’re going somewhere you haven’t been before it’s worth checking the FCDO guidelines before you go so you’re up to date on the latest advice.

Search ‘last minute holidays’

Not to state the obvious but we’re going to anyway. Chuck last minute holidays into Google and you’ll find dozens of sponsored results fighting for your attention. Take the time to separate out the good ones and you might stumble upon a cheeky flash sale that could save you tons. Again, if you’re not fussy about where you go and can travel at short notice this is the way to go.

Talk to the hotel directly

If you’ve got your eye on a particular hotel it’s worth trying to reach out directly. If they’ve got the rooms at short notice there’s a good chance they might be willing to give you one at a much lower price – you could even ask for an upgrade if you’re feeling brave. Hotels always prefer it when you go to them directly, so there’s always a chance they’ll give you a better rate than other booking sites.

Explore America like you haven’t before.

Being quarantined for months and continuing to practice social distancing has taught us that our country is called America the Beautiful for a reason. Americans are finding National Parks and hidden gems to add to their road trip itinerary that perhaps they didn’t know about before when they were busy flying all over the world. From deserts, oceans, and mountains, there’s a lot this country has to offer—and you can see it all from the comfort of your own four wheels.

While regular camping is more common, car camping in your SUV has been trending now more than ever. People are making summer travel plans around road trips and avoiding airplanes due to the pandemic and continuing to flatten the curve. If you’re planning a road trip, consider car camping. Benefits include saving time (you’re not pitching a tent at every stop), avoiding hotel rooms, and being able to store your belongings right in your car. If you’re experienced or if it’s your first time, here’s what you should know before you go on a car camping adventure.

1. Choosing the right vehicle is everything.

When you choose a vehicle for your car camping adventure, you’re not just picking a car—this is going to be your home. There won’t be any fancy hotels or cabins to unpack everything in, this is it. I’d recommend going big, ideally a larger SUV. It gives you plenty of room to store all of your essentials, bigger living space, and the ability to take on rockier terrains in remote areas.

2. Sleep with your head toward the front of the car.

Depending where you are, it might be difficult to find a spot to park overnight that is completely flat. Even if you find flat terrain, it’s important to sleep with your head toward the front of the car. Make sure that your feet are always below your head (there’s way more room at the front). The last thing you’d want is an uncomfortable night’s sleep ahead of a full day of adventuring.

3. Get creative (like an outdoor movie theater).

Immersed in the outdoors, some nights after a long day on the road might make for a nice movie. Don’t watch it on the small screen of your phone—get creative and make your very own outdoor movie theater with a portable projector, bluetooth speaker and a blanket! As long as you aren’t disrupting your neighbors, this is a perfect break from venturing. Look out for free WiFi on certain campground areas too.

4. Keep these camping essentials handy on your journey.

It may vary depending on the needs of your trip, but it’s safe to say that these essentials should be packed in your car for any excursion:

Navigation: map, compass, altimeter and GPS device.

Headlamp: don’t forget extra batteries.

Sun protection: sunglasses, sun-protective clothes and sunscreen.

First aid: including foot care and insect repellent.

Knife: plus a gear repair kit.

Fire: matches, lighter, tinder and/or stove.

They’re tools of survival for any situation you may find yourself in. Especially if it’s your first time camping, become knowledgeable on tips from the experts so you’re ready to take on the wild while staying safe.

5. Go fancy with your bed.

The luxury of car camping is that you don’t need to carry all of your gear with you on your back. Take advantage of this and get a good bed with comfortable mats, pillows, and blankets. Insulated blankets are suggested because cars can get just as cold as tents at nighttime. We recommend an insulated sleeping pad as your base. Splurge on the bed and make it just as nice as your bed back home, because a good night’s sleep will lead to a great day of adventuring.

6. Open the windows at night for ventilation.

Always keep your car ventilated by opening your windows just a touch. Don’t leave them wide open—we don’t want any animals finding their way into your car overnight. To combat the bugs, REI suggests cutting some mesh to cover the opening of the windows. If there’s not any ventilation, your windows will fog up and you’ll collect moisture in unwanted places.

7. Find alternatives for staying clean (without water).

Taking a shower is definitely not the easiest thing to do while car camping, but it can be doable. Find alternative products to bring along like no-rinse shampoo and hand sanitizer with a fully stocked toiletry bag of supplies. While water might be hard to come by, with these products you can still smell good and keep your hygiene above average.

8. Don’t park overnight illegally.

If you didn’t already know, you can’t just park anywhere you want overnight. Trust me, you don’t want a police officer knocking on your window at 7 a.m. to give you a fine. To help plan your trip, some useful apps include AllStays and Hipcamp. On them you can find free and paid locations where it’s totally legal to park overnight to sleep. Another option is the US Forest Service, where their roads are open to overnight parking. You might need specific required permits or passes, so make sure to do your check with them beforehand.

9. Bring a solar panel to charge your devices.

Keeping all of your electronics charged can be a major task—especially when you’re car camping with a companion. From your phone to camera, it’s a lot of necessary essentials. You might not realize it at first, but charging your devices overnight isn’t a possibility because the car is off (you can only charge your devices when the car is on). That’s why I would recommend a solar panel to charge up. There are various solar panels that can sit on your dashboard to make sure you’re never out of power for your electronic essentials.

Whether you’re traveling solo, your dog, with a friend or a significant other, this trip will be one to remember. Stay safe and bring a map just in case you lose service. After being quarantined for months, we can’t take travel for granted anymore so get out there, go off the grid and have an epic adventure to make up for lost time.

Whether it’s the abundance of sunshine, crashing waves, or silky sand, we all have our favorite beach features. Thousands of people visit seaside locations every year in search of the perfect beach to rest and unwind on. Beaches are available in a variety of colors and sizes. But some beaches are truly unique and one-of-a-kind, attracting throngs of people each year due to their exceptional beauty. Here are ten of the world’s most distinctive and unique beaches, all of which are testaments to nature’s magnificent handiwork.

1. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

The Giant’s Causeway is located on the edge of the Antrim plateau in Northern Ireland, at the foot of basalt cliffs along the sea shore. It consists of 40,000 enormous black basalt columns protruding from the sea.

The most famous legend about the Giant’s Causeway, which gives the attraction its name, is that the columns are relics of a causeway built by the giant Finn MacCool. Over the last 300 years, geological studies of these formations have substantially aided the development of the earth sciences, demonstrating that this stunning landscape was created by volcanic activity during the Tertiary period, some 50–60 million years ago.

2. Shell Beach in Shark Bay Region, Australia

Shell Beach, 45 kilometers south-east of Denham in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, is home to billions of small shells and is close to the Hamelin Pool Stromatolites. This stunning snow-white beach stretches for nearly 70 kilometers and is made up of billions of tiny shells up to 10 meters deep.

Shell Beach is one of only a few spots on the planet where beach sand is replaced by shells in such a dramatic and beautiful fashion. Shell Beach offers a unique walking experience. Shell Beach also boasts extremely salty ocean waters, allowing swimmers to effortlessly float on the surface.

3. Pink Sand Beach in Harbour Island, Bahamas

The beach, which is located on one of the Bahamas’ smaller islands, is ideal for sunbathing and swimming in the warm, clear water. The most remarkable feature, though, is a 5-kilometer stretch of beautiful pink sand! It is one of the world’s most extraordinary beaches.

Foraminifera — a marine invertebrate – and its red shell, which crushes and then blends with the white sand, gives the sand its light rose tint. Numerous resorts adorn the exquisite island, ensuring complete relaxation in these idyllic surroundings. Visitors can go swimming, snorkeling, and fishing during the day, and then visit the town in the evening to enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

4. Moon Beach in Milos Islands, Greece

Sarakiniko, on the island of Milos, is a well-known beach with white rock formations. It is situated on the Greek island of Milos. Sarakiniko Beach is also known as Moon Beach. The island lies in the Cyclades archipelago, which also includes Santorini and Naxos, and is formed like a horseshoe. In contrast to many other well-known Greek islands, the island is gorgeous and calm.

With its gleaming white tone, the entire landscape built by volcanic rocks shows no indications of vegetation. This contrasts beautifully with the surrounding water’s vivid blue and turquoise hues. The scene provides the feeling of being on the moon’s surface.

5. Koekohe Beach, New Zealand

Koekohe Beach is a strange, slightly wonderful location near the fishing community of Moeraki in the Otago area of New Zealand’s south island’s beach line. These particularly large spherical boulders are technically known as septarian concretions.

Some of the rocks are approximately three meters large, and the majority of them have fissures on their surfaces, making them look like huge dinosaur eggs. The Moeraki Boulders are said to be gourds that washed ashore when the Araiteuru boat was destroyed hundreds of years ago.

6. Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California

Glass Beach is MacKerricher State Park’s well-known southern beach in Fort Bragg. Glass Beach is named after the smooth, multicolored glass pieces that can be found strewn across the pebbly beach. It’s the result of years of trash being dumped in the neighborhood by locals. The debris was finally crushed into the sand by the ebb and flow of the tides and surf.

Thousands of people visit the glass beach every day. Although it is prohibited to take any glass from Glass Beach, this hasn’t stopped people from stealing what appears to be a little amount.

7. Scala Dei Turchi in Sicily, Italy

This is without a doubt one of the most fascinating stairways you’ve ever seen. It is a stunning stretch of shoreline that has become a symbol of Sicilian beach tourism due to its uniqueness.

This white cliff can be found between Realmonte and Porto Empedocle (Agrigento), and its rock is made of soft limestone and brilliant white marl. Visitors are welcome to wander on the soft, white cliffs, however, they are not permitted to take any of the rocks. Sicily is committed to preserving this outstanding landmark for the foreseeable future.

8. Black Beach, Iceland

Reynisfjara is a world-famous black-sand beach on Iceland’s south coast, close to the little fishing community of Vk Mrdal. It features characteristic Icelandic black sand, towering basalt columns, and big waves rushing onto the beach. The basalt rock formations were used in a couple of Game of Thrones episodes because of their unusual shape!

These massive basalt columns were formerly thought to be trolls attempting to draw ships from the sea to land, according to local legend. These trolls, on the other hand, were dim and ventured out late at night; daylight came on the horizon, turning the trolls into solid stone.

9. Hidden Beach in Marieta, Mexico

The Hidden Beach, or Playa del Amor, is a highlight of the Marieta Islands, which are located 22 nautical miles west of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, at the inlet of Banderas Bay. A huge, sandy cavern with the Pacific’s azure seas flowing in looks like something out of a dream story.

The hole that created the Hidden Beach is said to have been created by intentional bombings. The Hidden Beach is hidden from view and can only be reached by a long water tunnel that connects the beach to the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can swim or kayak to the beach because there is around six feet of space above sea level.

10. Cave Beach in Algarve, Portugal

The golden beaches and magnificent azure seas at Algar de Benagil, also known as cave beach, are spectacular within the cave, with sunshine shining through the roof and golden sand. For those who have not visited, it is a natural wonder of the world and pure travel inspiration.

With sunlight spilling through the cave’s roof, golden sand, and magnificent turquoise waters, Algar de Benagil, the cave’s Portuguese name, is breathtaking. Natural light pours in through the wide natural hole at the top, and the sun’s rays create a breathtaking natural sight. The lighting reflects magnificent colors everywhere as it dips into the ocean, accentuating the water’s emerald green and the rocks’ gold.

You really want to see a city like Dubai-its glittering skyline, its lavish lifestyle-but better seen on your own terms. With car rental, you have the freedom to explore all the wonders in a location-where you may have city streets seeming so busy and with quiet desert escapes. Here’s an informative guide packed full of tips for renting a car in Dubai and suggestions for scenic day trips that you won’t want to miss.

Tips to Rent a Car in Dubai

Renting a car in Dubai is not very tough; however, knowing all the details does add to your experience. Some of the vital tips are listed below:

1. Choose the correct car according to your requirement

Dubai roads are made for comfort and luxury. The vehicle you choose needs to fit your needs.  There are expensive options that can be used when cruising the city or on day trips.

2. Understand Licensing Requirements

Valid Driver’s License A valid driver’s license is required for car rental in Dubai. Most nationalities are allowed to drive here using their home license or International Driving Permit. Always confirm with the rental company in advance what is acceptable.

3. Book in Advance

Dubai is a very popular destination, and during peak seasons, there is always a great demand for car rentals. Booking ahead of time will ensure you get the best rate for you and the car you want.

4. Road Rules

The laws regarding driving in Dubai are pretty stringent and implemented as well. Be on your guard for speed limits, refrain from taking calls while driving, and even the radar cameras.

6. Rent a GPS Navigation

The roads of Dubai are quite well signposted, but growth in the city is so fast, and new roads and landmarks arise so often that it is quite easy to lose one’s way. A GPS system would really be a boon if your rented car comes with it; you won’t get lost as easily.

7. Be Cautious about Salik Tolls

Dubai has an electronic toll system called Salik. Most car rental companies will include any tolls in your bill, but check with them beforehand.

Great Day Trips from Dubai

With your car rental, the good times are really just beginning. Here are some day trips to take in some of the incredible scenery the UAE has to offer:

1. Dubai to Hatta

Hatta is a beautiful town in the Hajar Mountains. It is about 90 minutes by car from Dubai. It is a great outdoor activity place. Paddle at Hatta Dam, or visit the Heritage Village, or go hiking through mountain trails. And, of course, the trip itself is the adventure, the serpentine roads and stunning vistas.

2. Dubai to Abu Dhabi

One cannot bypass Abu Dhabi, which is the capital of the UAE. It lies within 90 minutes by car from Dubai and includes attractions from grand mosques, like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, opulently designed to palatial Emirates Palace and the cultural treasures forming the Louvre Abu Dhabi. The road runs through a breathtaking urban and desert landscape.

3. Dubai-Al Ain

Al Ain is referred to as the “Garden City” of the UAE and is a two-hour drive from Dubai. Visit Al Ain Oasis, Al Jahili Fort, and Jebel Hafeet, the country’s second-highest peak. The drives up Jebel Hafeet offer panoramic views and are one of the most scenic routes in the UAE.

4. Dubai to Fujairah

Fujairah is on the eastern side of the country and can be accessed within a 90-minute car drive from Dubai. The emirate is very ideal for a relaxing day by the sea; it has stunning beaches and incredible mountains. A visit to Fujairah will not be complete without visiting the oldest mosque in the UAE, the Al-Bidyah Mosque, and the Fujairah Fort.

5. From Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah is simply referred to as RAK. It is a treasure hidden an hour from Dubai. It has its fame on Jebel Jais mountain ranges where the world’s longest zipline was established. There is great mountain scenery suitable for photography.

6. From Dubai to Sharjah

Sharjah is the sister emirate of Dubai, and this emirate is full of culture and heritage. Among them, one can visit Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. One can take a stroll in Al Noor Island or pass time in shopping in the traditional Blue Souk. It is ideal for a day trip from Dubai as it is only a 30-minute drive.

7. Dubai to Liwa Oasis

Drive to Liwa Oasis, which straddles the rim of the world’s largest sand desert, Rub’ al Khali, a.k.a. Empty Quarter. This is an almost surreal experience from sheer size of dunes and stillness in the air. It takes about three hours from Dubai; so, do make an early start by morning.

8. From Dubai to Umm Al Quwain

If you’re looking for a tranquil escape, Umm Al Quwain is the perfect destination. Just 45 minutes from Dubai, this lesser-known emirate offers serene beaches, mangroves, and the Dreamland Aqua Park, ideal for families.

9. Dubai to Ajman

Ajman, the smallest emirate, is only a 40-minute drive from Dubai. It’s known for its relaxed vibe, beautiful beaches, and the Ajman Museum, housed in an 18th-century fort.

10. Dubai to Kalba

Kalba is a beautiful seashore town on the eastern side, which is two hours from Dubai. It is a perfect destination for people who want to live in places with diverse biodiversity. Places of attraction are the Kalba Bird of Prey Centre and mangrove forests. It is a haven for nature lovers.

Conclusion

With car hire in Dubai, you get to see the city and the places around it. You can make every moment of the journey as memorable as the destination when driving around the city and its surroundings at your own pace, be it a luxurious vehicle or something more practical. Now, here are some tips and ideas for great day trips so you are all set to go on an unforgettable adventure in and around Dubai.