How to Score the Best Hotel Deals for Your Next Vacation
Knowing when and where to book is the key to scoring the best hotel deals for your next vacation. While the exact day or time you book depends on your destination, traveling during shoulder seasons and weekdays can save you money.
Hotel comparison sites like Hotels.com are among the best ways to score a good deal. Start by looking at a few hotels and comparing their prices based on the number of nights you want to stay.
Online Coupon Sites
There are many ways to score the best hotel deals for your next vacation, from online coupon sites to calling the hotel directly. While each method may be a little more time-consuming, it can be a great way to score a fantastic deal that will make your trip memorable.
Online coupon sites offer great deals for hotels and resorts worldwide. They also have many packages tailored specifically for families. So not only will you save money on your stay, but you can also rest assured that you will get great value for the money.
One thing to remember when booking a hotel through an online coupon site is that prices can vary significantly from one place to the next. This is why it’s always a good idea to compare rates between different areas and any hotel loyalty or rewards programs offered at the hotel you’re looking to book.
Another great tip to save money on your hotel stay is to shop around for last-minute cancellations. Websites allow you to grab rooms that travelers have canceled just like you at prices usually a fraction of what they would be regularly.
Besides offering deals for hotel rooms, these sites also offer discount codes that you can use to redeem your purchase at restaurants or other businesses. The more times you use these codes, the more you can get back in free money.
If you are a military member, you can often get an additional discount on your hotel stay. You can also find discounts for members, seniors, and government employees.
Another way to save on your hotel stay is to book with sites that offer “mystery deals,” where you don’t know the hotel’s name until you pay. According to a survey, this method can help you consistently score significant savings.
Calling the Hotel Directly
One of the best ways to score the best hotel deals for your next vacation is to call the hotel directly. While it may seem like a hassle, hotels are happy to work with you to ensure your stay is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
In addition, calling the hotel can also help you find special rates or packages that aren’t available on booking engines or other sites. This can be particularly helpful for budget-conscious travelers who need to save money on their accommodations.
Alternatively, you can use third-party travel websites to find cheap flights and hotels. However, you should note that these services often charge a commission to the hotels they book. The commission can be higher than you would pay if you booked through the hotel directly, so it’s essential to research before choosing which site is right for you.
Another option is to search for introductory or promo rates on your destination’s tourism website or sign up for email updates. Those perks are typically available only for a limited time, including a discount on your room or other bonuses (like free parking).
If you’re staying at an independent or boutique hotel that isn’t affiliated with a large chain, you can always ask if they will match prices found through an online travel agency.
It’s also a good idea to check if your credit card or military ID will get you a discount on a room. Some hotels offer discounts for members of organizations.
It would help if you also look for other perks to add to your stay, including discounted parking or complimentary breakfast. These perks can add to significant savings and make your vacation more enjoyable.
Aside from offering these perks, many hotels have a cancellation policy that allows you to cancel your reservation up to a certain amount of time before your check-in. This can be a massive advantage for people traveling on an unpredictable schedule or who might have to cancel at short notice due to an emergency.
Booking More Out of the Way
One way to get the most bang for your buck is to book a hotel room more out of the way than you might typically. This may involve waiting until the last minute but can also mean traveling during a less busy time of year, such as the shoulder season, which often translates to lower accommodation prices.
Checking Your Status
You may be eligible for hotel discounts if you’re a member of an organization or a military member. Just be sure to mention your status when booking, and you’ll be well on your way to scoring a great deal! Several apps allow you to search for discounts by location. A great way to do this is to type in your vacation destination and travel dates. The app will list available hotels in the area and their guest ratings. Once you’ve chosen a few, compare their prices to see the best deal.