Last-Minute Vacations You Can Book With Your Tax Refund

The key here is flexibility—on destination, dates, and vibe.

A street performer flips for the crowd on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter May 15, 2009, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mario Tama/Getty Images/TNS

By Noreen Kompanik TravelPulse

For those who are getting back more of a tax refund this year than anticipated, it might be nice to celebrate the occasion with a last-minute vacation. Although some destinations may require more advance planning to nab good reservations, there are many other options available where last-minute bookings may even prove more affordable.

The key here is flexibility—in destination, dates, and vibe. It might also be a great idea to have several options in mind, depending on whether you’re looking for easy access, value, or cool places, in case your top pick doesn’t work out. And before booking, don’t forget to check the expiration date on your passport if you’re looking at traveling internationally.

We’ve provided some of the easiest destinations to quickly book with solid availability because of the number of resorts and price ranges/packages these places offer vacationers.

Dominican Republic (Punta Cana)

Punta Cana is built for easy, spontaneous travel. The region has dozens of large resorts in both Punta Cana and Cap Cana (the more polished, peaceful side of Punta Cana). Resorts often compete for last-minute discounts, and most offer all-inclusive packages that include accommodations, meals, drinks, and activities.

Direct flights from many U.S. cities, along with extra routes added by airlines during peak seasons, increase the odds of finding a decent fare, even at the last minute. Weather also plays a part in deciding to vacation here, as the April through June period offers sun and warmth but not the high humidity or risk of a hurricane that are present later in the year.

Mexico (Cancun/Riviera Maya)

Cancun and Riviera Maya are two of the easiest places to pull off a great last-minute vacation. There are dozens of daily nonstop flights from both large and midsize airports, typically with very competitive air prices.

Vacationers can choose between the party vibe of Cancun with its numerous high-rise resorts or the more spread-out, laid-back luxury venues of Riviera Maya. Because these regions offer so much inventory, hotels and resorts will often have last-minute discounted rooms. Package deals that include flights plus hotel also provide additional savings. And if you’re looking for an all-inclusive, this area has a ton of options available.

Bahamas

One of those rare destinations that actually gets easier to book at the last minute instead of harder, the Bahamas checks a lot of boxes that make spontaneous travel rewarding. It’s not only super close to many U.S. cities—a one-hour flight from most of Florida—but also, many destinations offer direct flights, especially to Nassau and Freeport. The best part about the Bahamas as a getaway is that the islands offer a wide range of experiences from popular, touristy destinations such as Nassau to more hidden gems such as Bimini, Exuma, and Eleuthera. Whatever your travel preference, you’ll find it in the Bahamas.

Los Cabos

Another destination that’s easy to get to with direct flights from many U.S. cities is Los Cabos in Baja, California, Mexico. Yes, it’s often considered a party town, but depending on where you stay and what you do, it doesn’t have to be.

The destination is an excellent last-minute vacation spot, as it combines accessibility, stunning beaches, and an impressive resort infrastructure with a huge selection of all-inclusive and boutique hotels, many offering last-minute deals or discounted packages.

The dramatic desert meets the ocean landscape, providing many options for vacationers, especially those who love the water. Snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and deep-sea fishing are popular. There are calm beaches and others that offer surfing opportunities, and sunset cruises are awe-inspiring. Dining varies from beach bars and casual dives to farm-to-table venues and oceanfront luxury settings. The phrase “there’s something for everyone” carries a lot of meaning here.

New Orleans

The Big Easy, as it’s often called, is a great choice for a last-minute getaway because it delivers a full, memorable experience without requiring much planning. Once you choose your method of transportation and book your choice of accommodation, the rest can be figured out once you’re settled in. With a wide range of hotels, from boutique to big chains, it’s easy to nab a booking.

There is the never-ending energy of Bourbon Street and the French Quarter with its jazz bands, street performers, and festivals, along with incredible Cajun and Creole and Southern-inspired cuisine. But visitors will also find the culture of its museums, history, and architecture, along with the quieter ambience of the picturesque Garden District.

Gulf Shores

If you’re looking for a relaxed beachy getaway without the crowds or the high price tags for accommodations, Gulf Shores offers soft white sand and calm, warm waters. Travel logistics are simple, whether driving or flying into Gulf Shores/Orange Beach Regional Airport (MOB) or Pensacola. Either way, once on the ground, it’s an easy drive to the beach.

With its mix of condos, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels, vacationers have lots of choices depending on preference. Fresh Gulf seafood is everywhere—shrimp, oysters, and grouper are practically served hook and net to table, and in most cases, you don’t even need a dining reservation.

Las Vegas

It may not be for everybody, but the truth is that Las Vegas is easy to get to, with a myriad of flight options and accommodation choices from budget to high-end luxury given its thousands of rooms on the Strip and beyond. The good news is that you don’t even have to be a gambler, as Sin City has a lot more going for it than just slot machines and gaming tables.

Entertainment abounds with its shows, concerts, magic acts, and nightlife. Celebrity chef restaurants make dining a delight, and casual eats and buffets are also available. If you’re into nature, Red Rock Canyon, less than 30 minutes away, is perfect for its scenery and hiking. Hoover Dam is a 45-minute drive excursion, and other nearby desert adventures include horseback riding, hot air ballooning, and ATV, dune buggy, and 4x4 tours.

San Diego

America’s Finest City, as it’s often called, is ideal for a getaway any time of the year because of its magnificent temperate weather, sunshine, beaches, culture, and outdoor activities. Even if you book last minute, chances are the weather will cooperate, and if you’re visiting before summer, beaches won’t be crowded and hotel prices will be more reasonable.

San Diego International Airport offers direct flights from most U.S. cities, with easy access from Los Angeles or even Phoenix by car. Accommodations are plentiful and include hotels, boutique inns, vacation rentals, and beachfront resorts. Whether you come for a trip of a few days or a longer stay, it’s not hard to find cultural and action-packed activities to fill your days.

Some include the world-famous San Diego Zoo, the USS Midway Museum and Embarcadero, Balboa Park, and the Gaslamp Quarter nightlife, not to mention the numerous charming beach towns dotting the Pacific coastline.

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