Has your studio shared the schedule yet for competitions you’ll be attending this season? If you’re already looking to get organized, one of the first questions on your mind might be: how far in advance should I book hotels for dance competitions? Dance weekends can fill up quickly, and being prepared early can save both stress and money. Whether you’re a planner eager to block hotel stays now or just trying to get a feel for costs, here are some tips to guide your booking strategy.
Hotels near competition venues can sell out quickly once studios release schedules. If you want peace of mind, it’s smart to book early — but make sure the hotel offers free cancellation or a full refund. This way, you’ll lock in availability without worrying about being stuck if your dancer doesn’t end up performing every day of that weekend.
It’s tempting to book Friday through Sunday right away, but sometimes your dancer might only perform one or two days. Check with your studio (or past competition schedules) to see typical patterns. You may be able to save money by trimming nights once the detailed schedule comes out.
Look beyond just the nightly rate. Does the hotel include:
Spending a little more for convenience can be worth it on competition weekends.
We’re constantly updating competition events on our Events Page with recommended hotels close to competition venues. This can help narrow down your search and save time.
If you’re unsure, check booking sites like Expedia for accommodations. Many listings allow you to reserve now with free cancellation until a certain date. That way you can keep your options open as schedules become clearer.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to book through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend options I believe will be helpful to dance families.
Book early — but wisely. Aim to reserve your room as soon as you know the competition city, ideally 2–3 months ahead, but always choose flexible booking options. That way, you’ll get the availability you want without being locked in if things change.
