Whether planned or impromptu, holidays are a great time to unwind, relax and get away from the everyday grind. However, planning a last-minute holiday is often pricey due to skyrocketing airfares, exorbitant hotel prices, and tour costs which act as major deterrents. But, you might not need to break the bank if you know where to look. Cheap last-minute holiday bargains are a reality and can be found in ample quantities, provided you adopt the right strategies and know the right places to look.

Foremost, it is crucial to have flexibility. The more flexible you are with your travel dates, destination, and accommodation, the better the bargains you can score. Sometimes, the best deals come in unexpected packages, and therefore having an open mind can help secure the best last-minute holiday deals.

Next, leverage the power of technology. Sign up for online travel alert services such as Skyscanner, Expedia, or Travelzoo. These services inform you about the cheapest options available, not just for flights and accommodations, but also for tours and packages. Often they offer substantial last-minute deals that can curtail the expenditure of your holidays drastically.

Don't forget to compare, compare, and compare! Comparing various travel portals is the key to finding the best deals. Websites like Kayak, Momondo, and Google Flights allow you to compare different airlines fares and accommodations concurrently, which often helps in identifying the best cost-effective choices.

Additionally, taking advantage of off-peak seasons can provide the most cost-effective last-minute holiday bargains. Visit attractive destinations during the offseason; not only will the locations be less crowded, but the prices of accommodations and travel will significantly drop as well.

Another possibility is to consider repositioning cruises. This tends to happen when cruise liners need to relocate their ships from one region to another as per the changing seasons. These atypical cruise routes offer significant last-minute discounts, resulting in you enjoying the same luxurious cruise experience at a fraction of the original price.

Lastly, for those who love surprises, "mystery deals" are the way to go. These are where companies like Priceline and Hotwire offer steep discounts, but you only find out the details after the booking is complete. It can be quite exciting and, most importantly, can save you a lot of money.

To sum it up, cheap last-minute holiday bargains are out there waiting to be seized. From being flexible with your plans to making the most out of technology and comparison, you could end up having the time of your life without burning a hole in your pocket. Safe travels!