Keep Those Bills in Your Wallet
Hidden fees, paid parking, last-minute changes—it seems we never know how much a room costs until we’re hundreds of dollars in the hole. Though online bookings can cost a fortune, we’re here to help you save money for that big trip ahead!
1. Do Your Research Beforehand
You won’t find the best rates without a little research first. As tedious as it can be, comb through various sites and consider which one best suits your needs—look into everything from your schedule, the hotel’s amenities, and its location.
2. Compare, Compare, Compare
Now that you have a few in mind, it’s time to see how they stack against each other. Comparing prices is just as important as comparing deals, so peruse coupon codes and promotions to see which option gives the best bang for your buck.
3. Book Ahead of Time
If your heart’s set on a timeline, you can always book early to save big. Most hotels offer incentives for those who book ahead, allowing you to shave serious money off that price tag. Some even have promotional deals specifically for those who book weeks in advance.
4. Invest in a Loyalty Card
Are you a frequent booker? It might be time to invest in a hotel’s loyalty program. Though they’re often met with skepticism, these programs offer far more than simple points. Loyalty programs let you save on bookings, upgrade your room, and collect perks for your next trip. They're also totally free to join!
5. Book Directly With the Hotel
Hotels love it when you book directly with them—so much, in fact, that they usually have incentives for those who do. You’ll score anything from flexible policies to lenient reservations, and most hotels offer their best prices upfront.
Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels
6. Try to Remain Flexible
Speaking of flexibility, spontaneous travelers tend to save big. While we’d all love a long weekend in a fancy hotel, guests can save hundreds of dollars by booking on less popular days. If your trip allows some flexibility, consider which weeknights actually save the most money.
7. Consider Credit Card Rewards
Credit cards aren’t for everyone—but some guests reap serious benefits with the right one. Popular companies like American Express or Capital One offer credit cards that rack up points as you spend, which can knock quite a few zeroes off your bill.
8. Travel During the Off Season
Everything’s more expensive during peak travel season. If you aren’t particular about when you travel, consider going during the off or shoulder season. You’ll save big on accommodations and flights and might even score additional discounts for your business.
9. Sign Up for Newsletters
It’s easy to hate those little popups. “Join our newsletter!” “Do you want the latest deals?” “Let us clog your inbox!” However, newsletter signups often come with savings, so they’re worth checking out. If you frequent a particular hotel, their newsletter also alerts you about the latest promotions, which helps come booking time.
10. Indulge in Every Amenity
Why splurge on amenities when your hotel already offers them? Keep your eyes peeled for free wi-fi and parking, continental breakfasts, and entertainment like gyms or in-house restaurants! Free snacks and flatscreen TVs only make your trip better—and you won’t have to open your wallet.
11. Consider Your Options
As beneficial as rewards programs are, they don’t hold a candle to deals already in your pocket. Study your own discounts and see if you qualify for savings through AARP or AAA. You already pay for those programs, so you might as well squeeze every dollar out of them.
12. Reach Out to the Sales Department
If you’re okay with making phone calls, you can always reach out to the hotel’s sales department. You might just finagle your way into a group discount, lower booking costs, or lock in incentives for booking directly with the hotel.
13. Last-Minute Deals
It’s a common misconception that last-minute deals save money every time—but be careful with this strategy. While it’s true that you’ll shave a few bucks off your receipt, you’re also locked into those days, which can put a damper on any last-minute changes. But if you have a timeline locked in, you should be good to go.
14. Keep Away From Tourist Areas
Hotels in the the city always charge a fortune. After all, you’re in the heart of the action. The good news is that you’ll see significant savings if you stay a couple of blocks away. A big part of your research should always entail location and how far you’re willing to travel.
15. Look for Hotel Packages
Looking for something to do with the whole family? Many hotels offer bundled packages that let you explore amenities for cheap. Guests might see anything from room deals to bar and restaurant discounts, so make sure you inquire.
16. Best Rate Guarantees
Hotels vie for our business, which means many of them have best rate guarantees—a price-matching incentive that provides guests with the fairest prices. If you find something cheaper, bring it up to your hotel and ask if they can do you one better.
17. Consider Pre-Paying for Your Room
Prepaid rooms can be a dice roll, but what they lack in flexibility they make up for in savings. If you have your schedule down pat, you can always pay in advance to lock in your room. Should any last-minute hiccups occur, travel insurance will likely bail you out.
Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels
18. Be Wary About Hidden Fees
You can usually spare yourself hidden fees by booking directly with the hotel. Of course, some travelers prefer third-party websites, which opens the door to pesky add-ons that take a chunk out of your wallet. Proceed with caution when you book online.
19. Don’t Be Shy About Upgrades
If you’re really itching for an upgrade, there’s no shame in asking the front desk. For big occasions like anniversaries or engagements, hotels might bump you up for free. The worst they can say is no!
20. Alternative Accommodations
You don’t always have to stay in the flashiest hotel rooms. Some of the best trips are spent off the beaten path, tucked away in hostels or Airbnb rentals. See which accommodations truly tickle your fancy and don’t be afraid to go against the grain.
