Traveling and hotels are two of the most important parts of every trip. They provide you with a place to rest after a long day of exploring, as well as somewhere to stay when you are in a hurry or need a break. Regardless of your reason for traveling, there are many ways to save money on hotel accommodations.
Using Your Membership Status
If you have membership in a specific organization, you may be able to secure a discounted rate at the hotel that you are planning to stay in. These discounts vary by destination, but you can usually find one by calling the hotel sales department and asking them for a special deal.
Timing Your Reservations
For best rates, book your room far in advance if possible. Most hotels increase their prices as they approach your arrival date, so if you can time it right, you can get the most value out of your trip and a cheaper room than if you booked on the spot.
Use Your Credit Cards for Discounts
Depending on your card, you can often obtain discounts on rooms at many different types of hotels. Most credit cards offer rewards that can be used toward a stay, and some even have their own loyalty programs.
Avoid the High Season
The peak tourist seasons are when the most people are staying at hotels, so it is best to avoid them if possible. Instead, opt for off-season or shoulder dates and times when there is less demand on hotels in the city that you are visiting.
Booking in Advance
The best rates are often available when you book 21 days or more in advance. This helps the hotels to manage their occupancy better and can also give you a lower rate than if you were to walk into the hotel on the day of your stay and book a room without a reservation.
Get a Reputation for Being a Loyal Customer
If you regularly visit a particular hotel, get to know the front desk staff and managers. They will be happy to help you with any questions you might have and give you a great experience on your next visit. This will also get you a reputation as a loyal customer, which can lead to discounts on your next trip!
Avoid Large Festivals & Events
In most destinations, the tourist season is not only dependent on weather conditions, but also on the number of local festivals and events that are taking place at the same time. These can make it difficult to find a good price on your hotel room, and they can be particularly difficult to book at peak times.
Be sure to read reviews of the hotels you are considering before making your final decision. This will help you determine whether or not the hotel is worth your money.
Compare Star Ratings
Some countries have a set of rules for determining the star ratings for hotels. These are regulated by tourism authorities or industry associations, and can be fairly reliable.