How and where to get a great last minute holiday deal

Last minute holidays have become extremely popular because of this. By booking late, you don't have to work your diary out months in advance, you can go as and when you feel like it and you get a much better rate.

But there are some things to remember when booking last minute, to make sure you don't get stung by hidden costs and small details.

Check what's included

While last minute holidays are a lot less that those booked in advance, the travel companies still aren't giving them away. Check that the price includes things such as baggage allowance otherwise you could end up being charged loads when you get to the airport.

Don't be unrealistic

Just because it's last minute doesn't mean you're going to be sunning it up in Dubai on the cheap. Your best bet is Europe as anything further afield isn't usually that much cheaper.

Be prepared to fly

In exchange for a cheaper holiday, you might not be flying direct to your destination and you can almost guarantee that the flight hours won't be very sociable. But it will be worth it when you're sitting around the pool getting mojito'd up.

Here are eight of the best last minute holiday websites to choose from