If you’re stressed, overworked, or just itching for a change of scenery, it might be time for a last-minute Panama City Beach holiday vacation. If you’re ready to get out of town as soon as yesterday, we’ve got all the tips you need to help you get the holiday you need, now!

1: Choose Panama City Beach as Your Last-Minute Destination

You know you want to leave town, you just don’t know where to go. When looking for a last-minute destination it’s important to take three things into consideration: how you’ll get there, where you’ll stay, and what you’ll do.  Panama City Beach, Florida, is known for its great drive-to flexibility from many different parts of the country. This immediately becomes more cost effective in saving on flights and transportation. If flying becomes a necessity, and then you’ll need to take into consideration flight prices, getting to and from the airport, and the timing of available flights. Thankfully, there is the Northwest Florida International Airport that allows short airport commute times to your resort.  Where you’ll stay and what you’ll do may be tied up into one deal if you find a great Panama City Beach resort to stay at! Look out for local companies (like Resort Collection!) with reputable beach resorts that offer packages to make your planning stress-free with all-in-one deals.

2: Be Flexible For Travel

When it comes to a last-minute Panama City Beach holiday getaway, you may find that your dream resort has to be booked six months out to avoid higher last-minute rates. Be open to when the best deals may occur, especially when flying. While you may be able to find airfare deals as close as two to three weeks in advance, the closer you get to your travel date, the more expensive flights will get. Consider driving and make a road trip out of it!  If flying is a must for your getaway, be open to return and arrival days. Flights on Mondays and Tuesdays tend to be cheaper than those on weekend dates, and even a layover or two may save you money. Some airlines, like Southwest, have low-fare calendars that allow you to compare pricing for departure and arrival flights day-by-day.

3: Look for Packages and Deals

 Check out local beach resorts for packages and special deals. A resort package can offer you somewhere to stay, eat, and deals with local things to do! Some resorts may even offer things to do right where you’re staying with pools, gyms, golf courses, and more. Check out other deal sites like Groupon to find coupons to local activities like tours or shows.  Most likely, you’ve got a credit card or two that comes loaded with partnership deals just waiting for you to take advantage of. If you’ve got rewards points or miles to spend, you can find great deals on hotels or rental cars, and your credit card’s got recommendations for wherever you’ll end up in Panama City Beach.

4: Decide Who Is Coming With You

Traveling alone can be an immersive experience but if you’re wanting a little company, make sure you know who’s ready to jump in on your last-minute holiday vacation before you start planning! You may find better deals for multiple people, and splitting costs will help with the budget.  Need help convincing your travel team to join your adventures? Make a plan that they simply can’t say no to! The less they have to do or plan, the easier it will be for them to see themselves on Panama City Beach with you.

5: Learn to Pack Light

If you’re leaving quickly, then you’ll have to learn to pack quickly and efficiently. You can save money and time when flying by bringing just one bag as a carryon. Not sure how to pack or what to pack? Check out our guide to packing for your vacation. It might be easy to miss things when you’re packing quickly for a last-minute trip, so make a list and check it twice!

6: Eat Unique Or At Home

A last-minute vacation getaway to Panama City beach may mean getting reservations for the spotlight restaurants in town is impossible. No fear—this is your chance to really get to know the locals! Take your time exploring local restaurants and diners to find the best places to eat in town. Use restaurants like Localeur to get the inside scoop on where the locals eat.   Saving money? All the condo units at Resort Collection Panama City beach resorts come with a kitchen (or kitchenette) and allow you to cook your own meals! Eating in the comfort of your own condo means more money to spend out on the town, experiencing your getaway destination.    Warning: Once you’ve experienced the spontaneity and ease of a last-minute holiday, you may become addicted. To make it an even easier choice, choose a location that has a team of vacation specialists who can make the planning even easier. Explore our options today!