The hotel industry is highly competitive with almost 80,000 hotels in the United States and over 5 million rooms available. Applying the principles of supply and demand, there are numerous opportunities to save money when booking hotels. Here’s how.
Keep Watching Prices
One advantage of hotel bookings is the ability to cancel reservations without penalties 24 to 48 hours before your intended stay. If you’ve booked well in advance, don’t assume it’s the best price. Monitor for price drops, and if you find a lower rate, seize the opportunity to cancel your existing reservation—even if it’s at the same hotel. Alternatively, you can contact the hotel, inform them of the lower rate you’ve found, and inquire about an adjustment.
Don’t Trust the Aggregates
While platforms such as Expedia or TripAdvisor are useful for initial rate comparisons when you’re uncertain about prevailing prices, they might not always offer the lowest rates. These aggregate sites earn commissions from hotel brands to display room rates. However, booking directly through the hotel brands or the hotel itself could potentially provide lower rates. If you find a favorable room rate, consider going directly to the source, which may also open up opportunities for upgrades and special offers.
Request a Deal
Every hotel under a specific brand may display prices on their website, but each hotel operates with its own set of objectives. By reaching out to the hotel’s management directly, you may have the opportunity to negotiate deals. For instance, if you find a competitor with a lower room rate but prefer the first hotel, give them a call and express your preference. They might be willing to match or even lower their price for you. It’s worth trying!
Get Social
Keep track of hotels on their social media accounts like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. They often announce special sales there before putting them on their websites or sending emails. While you’re at it, also sign up for their newsletters and email alerts.
Travel Beyond Weekends
For frequent travelers, opting for weekday trips is crucial as many resorts charge higher rates on Friday and Saturday nights. If you can plan your travels during the week or consider options like Saturday through Monday or Thursday through Saturday, you can enjoy savings on your “weekend” getaway.
Seek out Business Hotels
However, if you prefer a weekend getaway, explore hotels that primarily cater to business clientele—often situated near airports, downtown areas, or convention centers. Since business travelers typically occupy rooms on weekdays, hotels may offer lower rates during weekends to attract weekend business.
Be Loyal
Becoming a member of a hotel’s loyalty program is entirely free and highly recommended, even for a single stay. Members enjoy perks such as complimentary WiFi, free water, and potential room upgrades. Don’t hesitate—go ahead and sign up!
Travel in the Off-Season
Certainly, everyone desires a summer beach vacation, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. While winter might not be the ideal time, consider exploring what’s known as the “shoulder season.” This period occurs after spring break and before Memorial Day, or after Labor Day and before the holidays. During the shoulder season, fewer people tend to travel, especially since kids are in school. This is when you’ll discover the lowest rates, even for hotels around Disney.
Look for Amenities
I’ve never been a fan of paying up to $25 a day for WiFi at places like the Four Seasons when, at a Holiday Inn, it’s free. Cheaper hotels might not offer high-thread-count linens, but they often include perks like a complimentary breakfast buffet and free parking. If your hotel is simply a place to rest your head, with most of your time spent elsewhere, opt for the ones that give you the most value for your money. On the other hand, if the resort itself is the main attraction, go for the one that provides the most comfort and enjoyment.
Suite Savings
While hotel suites may cost more than regular rooms, they often come with a living area and kitchenettes equipped with refrigerators and microwaves. Opting for a space with a kitchenette can lead to savings on dining expenses if you stock it and plan your meals wisely. This can potentially outweigh the additional cost of the room, especially if you’re traveling with a family of four and have multiple mouths to feed.
Use a Travel Rewards Credit Card
If you’re a frequent traveler, a travel rewards credit card can provide you with complimentary hotel nights and upgrades. Some cards offer cashback of up to 5% on your travel expenses, while others provide new cardholder bonuses that could result in a free weekend stay if you spend a specific amount within the initial 90 days. By using your card for all your expenses, similar to a debit card (and ensuring you pay it off each month to avoid interest charges), you could potentially enjoy a getaway at no cost.
Bundle with Your Flight
Make the most of airline deals after booking your flight. Frequently, they will guide you to affiliated hotels at your destination, allowing you to save on both your hotel stay and rental cars.