How to Get the Best Hotel Deal: Tips for Smart Travelers
Are you always struggling to find the best price for your hotel stay? It’s no secret that booking a hotel can be a bit of a headache, especially when you’re on a budget. But don’t worry—this article will give you the lowdown on how to get the best hotel deal out there. By following these tips, you’ll be able to save money, relax, and enjoy your next trip. So, let’s dive in!
1. Check Prices Across Multiple Platforms
When it comes to finding the best hotel deal, you’re not just looking for the lowest price. You want to make sure you’re comparing apples to apples—by checking prices across different platforms. Some platforms specialize in certain types of hotels or offers, so you might miss out if you only book through one website. For example, Booking.com andagggate.com often have similar prices, but sometimes one is cheaper than the other. By exploring all your options, you’re more likely to find the perfect balance of price and comfort.
2. Book in Advance, But Don’t Rely Exclusively on That
Some people say booking in advance guarantees a better deal, but that’s not always true. Why? Because hotels often fill up during peak seasons, so booking earlier doesn’t always mean you get the lowest rate. However, there are exceptions. For instance, if you book a weekday hotel during the off-season, you might get a great rate that’s hard to beat. Plus, many hotels offer loyalty programs that reward you with free stays or discounts for booking in advance. So, while it’s worth shopping around, don’t just stick to the calendar date you picked—it might be worth waiting a few days for a better deal.
3. Use Your Travel Agents and Loyalty Programs
If you’re a frequent traveler, your airline or hotel loyalty program might have exclusive deals that aren’t available to the general public. For example, United Airlines’ Amex Gold program offers extra redemption flexibility, and many hotels partner with these programs to offer perks like free stays or upgrades. Similarly, if you’re earning points with your credit card, check if your hotel chain (like Hyatt or Marriott) is offering exclusive rates to cardholders. These kinds of deals can really add up over time.
4. Reference-Based Bookings Are a Game-Changer
If you’re planning a trip with friends or family, consider making a reference-based booking. This means booking based on someone else’s itinerary, which can often lead to better rates. You might even find rooms that are usually booked by groups traveling together. Plus, if you’re flexible about dates, reference-based bookings can help you snag deals that aren’t available to solo travelers. It’s a win-win situation!
5. Don’t Ignore the Value of Free Days
Now, here’s a tip that might seem counterintuitive: Sometimes, the best deals aren’t about saving money but about getting something for free. Hotels often offer free breakfast, gym access, or drink with your stay. And in some cases, you might even get a free stay if you spend enough points or dollars with your loyalty program. So, don’t just focus on the room price—look for deals that include freebies. You’ll be surprised how much value those extra perks can add to your stay.
Example: How to Get the Best Hotel Deal
Let’s say you’re planning a trip to Paris and you want to save money. You decide to use multiple platforms to compare prices. You check through Booking.com,agggate.com, and Expedia, and you find that a classic double room at a luxury hotel is $200 per night on Booking.com, $190 onagggate.com, and $180 on Expedia. Not bad! But then you realize the Expedia booking is from three weeks earlier—will that expire soon? If you’re flexible with dates, you might still get the same rate.
You also check your hotel’s loyalty program and discover that if you book before January 1st, you get a 10% discount. Plus, if you book through the hotel’s website, you get an extra $10 off. You decide to book the room on December 25th, pay $180 minus $10, and then use your loyalty points for free breakfast and gym access. What a deal!
Final Thoughts
Getting the best hotel deal isn’t just about saving money—it’s about making the most of every opportunity. By checking multiple platforms, booking in advance, using loyalty programs, and being flexible, you can find the perfect balance of price and comfort. And don’t forget to look for freebies like free stays, breakfast, and gym access. With a little research and creativity, you can turn your next trip into an unforgettable adventure.
So, what are you waiting for? Start applying these tips today and start booking like a pro!