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Introduction – How To Save Money On Hotels in 2023
Are you tired of overpaying for hotels on your vacations or business trips? If so, you’re not alone. Hotel prices can be a major expense, and it’s natural to want to find ways to save money on these costs.
According to a survey by the travel website Travelocity, the average nightly rate for a hotel room in the United States was $129 in 2020, with prices ranging from a low of $82 in Las Vegas, Nevada to a high of $261 in New York City.
Fortunately, there are a number of ways to reduce your hotel expenses and still have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore a variety of strategies for saving money on hotels, including tips for finding the best deals, negotiating lower rates, and taking advantage of loyalty programs and rewards.
Top Tips To Save Money On Hotels
Compare prices across multiple websites and platforms
The first step to finding the best deal on a hotel is to shop around and compare prices from multiple sources. There are many websites and platforms that allow you to search for and compare hotel prices, including:
- Online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, Orbitz, and Travelocity
- Hotel booking websites like Hotels.com and Booking.com
- Hotel loyalty program websites, such as Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors
- Meta-search engines like Kayak and Trivago, which allow you to search multiple websites at once
It’s important to check a variety of sources, as the prices for the same hotel can vary significantly depending on the platform.
For example, a study by CheapAir.com found that hotel prices on OTAs can be up to 30% cheaper than on the hotel’s own website.
Additionally, it’s worth considering alternative accommodation options, such as vacation rentals or home stays, which can often be more affordable than traditional hotels. Platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway allow you to search for and compare prices on these types of rentals.
Look for discounts and promotions
Many hotels offer discounts and promotions to attract customers, so it pays to keep an eye out for these deals. Here are a few ways to find discounts on hotels:
- Sign up for email lists or newsletters from hotels and OTAs. These often include special offers and promotions that are only available to subscribers.
- Follow your favourite hotels and OTAs on social media. They may offer discounts and promotions through their accounts.
- Check out the “Deals” or “Special Offers” sections on hotel and OTA websites. These sections often include discounts for advance bookings, last-minute bookings, or off-peak travel dates.
- Use coupons and promo codes. These can often be found through online searches or through websites that offer coupons for a variety of products and services.
- Look for “flash sales” or limited-time offers. These are typically offered by hotels or OTAs for a short period of time and may include significant discounts on rooms.
Consider the location and amenities
When shopping for a hotel, it’s important to consider the location and amenities that are important to you. For example, if you’re traveling for business and need easy access to meeting venues or public transportation, you may be willing to pay a little more for a hotel that’s conveniently located. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, you may be willing to sacrifice a central location for a hotel that’s closer to the beach.
It’s also worth considering the amenities that are included in the room rate. For example, some hotels may offer free breakfast or a pool, which can save you money on meals and entertainment. On the other hand, if you don’t plan to use these amenities, you may be able to find a cheaper hotel that doesn’t include them.
Negotiate for a lower rate
If you have some flexibility in your travel dates or are willing to book a room at the last minute, you may be able to negotiate a lower rate with the hotel. Here are a few strategies for negotiating a lower rate:
- Call the hotel directly and ask for a better rate. If the hotel has availability and is trying to fill rooms, they may be willing to offer a lower rate to secure your booking.
- Mention any special circumstances, such as a birthday or anniversary, which may make the hotel more likely to offer a discount.
- If you’re a member of a loyalty program or have a corporate rate, be sure to mention this when negotiating. These discounts may not be automatically applied, and you may be able to get an even better rate by negotiating.
- Consider booking a room with a “flexible rate.” These rates are typically higher than standard rates, but they may allow you to cancel or change your reservation without penalty. If you’re unsure of your travel plans or think you may be able to find a better rate later, a flexible rate may be a good option.
- Take advantage of loyalty programs and rewards
Many hotels have loyalty programs or rewards programs that allow you to earn points or credits for your stays. These programs often include perks such as free nights, room upgrades, and priority check-in. If you stay at hotels frequently for business or personal travel, it can be worth it to join a loyalty program and start earning rewards.
Some hotels also offer credit card rewards programs that allow you to earn points or credits for your stays when you use a specific credit card to book. For example, the Marriott Bonvoy American Express card allows you to earn points for every dollar you spend on Marriott hotels, as well as on other purchases.
Consider alternative accommodation options
As mentioned earlier, alternative accommodation options such as vacation rentals or home stays can often be more affordable than traditional hotels. These options may also offer more space and amenities than a standard hotel room, making them a good choice for families or groups.
Additionally, if you’re traveling to a destination with a high demand for hotel rooms, you may be able to find more affordable rates by staying in a more remote location and commuting to your destination. This can be especially true for major cities, where hotel prices can be much higher in the downtown area compared to the suburbs.
Look for off-peak travel deals
If you have some flexibility in your travel dates, you may be able to save money by traveling during the off-peak season. Hotels often offer lower rates during the shoulder season (the period between the high and low seasons) or during the low season, when demand for rooms is lower.
For example, you may be able to find better deals on hotel rooms in beach destinations during the fall, when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds have thinned out. Similarly, you may be able to find cheaper rates on ski resort hotels during the spring, when the ski season is over.
By considering these factors and being flexible with your travel plans, you may be able to find significant savings on your hotel costs.
Book with a group or through a travel agent
If you’re traveling with a group or planning a trip for a large family or organization, you may be able to negotiate a better rate by booking a block of rooms through a travel agent or directly with the hotel. Hotels often offer discounts for group bookings, and a travel agent may be able to negotiate a better rate on your behalf.
Consider a package deal
Another way to save money on hotels is to book a package deal that includes flights, car rentals, and other travel expenses along with your hotel room. These packages can often be cheaper than booking each component separately, and they may also include additional perks such as free meals or activities.
Use rewards points or miles
If you have rewards points or miles through a loyalty program or credit card, you may be able to redeem them for hotel stays or travel-related expenses. This can be a great way to save money on hotels, especially if you have a large balance of points or miles that you’re not using.
Consider alternative accommodation options
In addition to vacation rentals and home stays, there are other alternative accommodation options that can be more affordable than traditional hotels. For example, hostels and bed and breakfasts can often offer lower rates, especially if you’re willing to share a room or bathroom.
Additionally, if you’re comfortable with a more unusual or unconventional accommodation, you may be able to find even lower rates. For example, websites like Couchsurfing allow you to stay with a local host for free (although you may be expected to contribute to household expenses or offer a small gift).
Consider off-site hotel options
If you’re traveling to a destination with high demand for hotel rooms, you may be able to find more affordable rates by staying at a hotel that’s located a short distance from your destination. For example, if you’re visiting a popular theme park, you may be able to find a cheaper hotel that’s located a few miles away from the park. While this option may require a bit of extra travel time, it can be a great way to save money on hotel costs.
Look for discounts for military, senior citizens, and students
Many hotels offer discounts for military personnel, senior citizens, and students. If you qualify for any of these discounts, be sure to ask about them when booking a room.
Don’t be afraid to ask for an upgrade
If you’re celebrating a special occasion or have a high status in a loyalty program, you may be able to get a free room upgrade by simply asking. While it’s not guaranteed, it’s worth a try, especially if you have a good reason for requesting an upgrade.
Also read : How to Save Money: A Comprehensive Guide
Conclusion
By considering these various strategies, you can save money on your hotel costs and have more money to spend on other travel expenses or activities. It’s important to do your research and compare prices across different websites and platforms, as well as to look for discounts and promotions. Negotiating a lower rate, taking advantage of loyalty programs and rewards, and considering alternative accommodation options can also help you save money on hotels. In addition, booking with a group or through a travel agent, considering a package deal, using rewards points or miles, and looking for off-peak travel deals can all be effective ways to save money on your hotel costs. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for an upgrade if you have a good reason, and be sure to ask about discounts for military personnel, senior citizens, and students if you qualify. By following these tips, you can find the best deals on hotel rooms and get the most value for your money.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I save money on hotels by booking last-minute?
Yes, it’s often possible to find lower rates on hotels by booking last-minute, especially if the hotel has availability and is trying to fill rooms. However, it’s also important to consider the risks of booking last-minute, such as the possibility of not finding any available rooms or not being able to find a hotel that meets your needs or preferences.
Is it always cheaper to book a hotel directly with the hotel rather than through an online travel agency (OTA)?
It’s not always cheaper to book directly with the hotel, as prices can vary depending on the hotel and the time of year you’re traveling. It’s important to compare prices across multiple websites and platforms to find the best deal.
Yes, booking a room with a shared bathroom can often be cheaper than booking a private bathroom. However, it’s important to consider your own preferences and comfort level when deciding whether to book a room with a shared bathroom.
Can I save money on hotels by staying in a less central location?
Yes, hotels located in more remote areas or further from popular tourist destinations can often be cheaper than hotels located in more central areas. However, it’s important to consider the additional travel time and costs that may be involved in staying in a less central location.
Can I save money on hotels by staying at a hostel or bed and breakfast?
Yes, hostels and bed and breakfasts can often be cheaper than traditional hotels, especially if you’re willing to share a room or bathroom. However, it’s important to consider the level of privacy and amenities that are provided at these types of accommodations.
Can I save money on hotels by negotiating a lower rate with the hotel directly?
Yes, it’s often possible to negotiate a lower rate with the hotel directly, especially if the hotel has availability and is trying to fill rooms. It’s a good idea to call the hotel and ask for a better rate, and to mention any special circumstances or loyalty program memberships that may make the hotel more likely to offer a discount.
Can I save money on hotels by using rewards points or miles?
Yes, if you have rewards points or miles through a loyalty program or credit card, you may be able to redeem them for hotel stays or travel-related expenses. This can be a great way to save money on hotels, especially if you have a large balance of points or miles that you’re not using.
Can I save money on hotels by booking a package deal that includes flights, car rentals, and other travel expenses?
Yes, package deals that include flights, car rentals, and other travel expenses can often be cheaper than booking each component separately. These packages may also include additional perks such as free meals or activities.
Can I save money on hotels by staying in an alternative accommodation option like a vacation rental or homestay?
Yes, alternative accommodation options like vacation rentals and homestays can often be more affordable than traditional hotels, especially if you’re traveling with a larger group. It’s important to consider the level of privacy, amenities, and location that are provided at these types of accommodations.
Can I save money on hotels by traveling during the off-peak season or shoulder season?
Yes, hotels often offer lower rates during the off-peak season or shoulder season, when demand for rooms is lower. It’s a good idea to consider the weather and other factors when deciding when to travel, as off-peak rates may not always be the best option depending on your destination and activities.
Can I save money on hotels by booking a room with a flexible rate?
Yes, booking a room with a flexible rate may allow you to cancel or change your reservation without penalty, which can be a good option if you’re unsure of your travel plans. However, it’s important to note that flexible rates may also be more expensive than non-refundable rates, so it’s a good idea to compare the costs of both options before booking.
Can I save money on hotels by joining a loyalty program and earning rewards for my stays?
Yes, loyalty programs can be a great way to save money on hotels by earning points or credits for your stays. These points or credits can often be redeemed for free nights, room upgrades, or other perks. It’s a good idea to consider the benefits and terms of different loyalty programs before joining one.
Can I save money on hotels by staying at a hotel that’s located a short distance from my destination?
Yes, if you’re traveling to a destination with high demand for hotel rooms, you may be able to find more affordable rates by staying at a hotel that’s located a short distance from your destination. However, it’s important to consider the additional travel time and costs that may be involved in staying at an off-site hotel.
Can I save money on hotels by asking for a room upgrade?
Yes, if you’re celebrating a special occasion or have a high status in a loyalty program, you may be able to get a free room upgrade by simply asking. However, it’s important to note that room upgrades are not always guaranteed and may depend on availability and other factors.
Can I save money on hotels by asking about discounts for military personnel, senior citizens, and students?
Yes, many hotels offer discounts for military personnel, senior citizens, and students. If you qualify for any of these discounts, it’s a good idea to ask about them when booking a room. It’s important to note that these discounts may not always be available and may depend on the hotel’s policies.
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