Finding great hotels that meet your budget and requirements is a very difficult task. Even searching for hours with thousands of websites available and overspending on accommodations, no guarantee of getting a satisfactory hotel. However, with the proper strategies and ultimate hacks, you can find the best deals that do not have to break the bank. In this article, we will discuss the 15 ultimate hacks that you can unlock incredible hotel deals without sacrificing quality.
1. Timing is most Important
Timing is the most important factor influencing hotel prices. During the off-season, hotels are available with the cheapest prices due to the low demand for rooms. To attract guests hotels can offer different deals and offers on the room booking. Off-season travel can also reduce the rates on airfare, local transport, food, and other things. The hotel prices do not change during the off-season. But during peak-season hotel prices fluctuate daily. To grab the best deals, book the hotels well in advance. On weekends Friday to Saturday hotel prices are cheaper.
2. Compare prices on websites
Price comparison websites are the best options to find the best hotel deals. Start from Trivago which compares hotel prices from over 100 sites. The other platforms that compare the hotel prices on multiple platforms are Hotel.com, KAYAK, TripAdvisor, Searhotelprices.com, Skyscanner, and Hotel.com. These sites not only compare the hotel prices but also compare the deals and discounts on several platforms. Search for the best hotels of your choice on these platforms and find the best hotel for you.
3. Sign in, save money
Some websites offer the facility of deals on hotel booking. For that, you have to sign in and register your name with the hotel. After signing in you can avail the deals. Sign-in for the deal is available at Bbooking.com which offers savings of 10% on participating properties. Some websites offer Promotions and special offers.
4. Book a hotel early or look for Last-minute hotel deals
Early booking hotels can save money on your stay. Last-minute hotel booking may offer lower rates to fill the empty rooms. Hotel booking websites like Lastminute.com, HotelTonight, Booking.com, Trivago, TripAdvisor, and Hotel.com offer last-minute deals. Also, try to book the hotel just before your specific dates, but make sure that inventory should not be sold out. If you are going on a spontaneous gateway search for last-minute deals to save money.
5. Contact the hotel for negotiation
You can search for hotel prices online on famous websites. But do not depend on the cost shown against the hotel. You can visit the official website of the hotel to check the prices. Sometimes you will find them at the same cost but with more additional perks. You may also contact the hotel’s inquiry desk by phone or email to negotiate with them about the cost. By contacting the hotel authority, you may get the hotel at a cheaper rate.
6. Consider alternative accommodations
Do not stick to the hotels only. No doubt hotels are comfortable and popular among travelers but costly. There are lesser-known accommodations besides hotels like guest houses, B&B, resorts, houses, chalets, villas, and more. These options may be available at affordable prices as compared to the hotels. The most affordable options are Hostels and dormitories and best for backpackers. Websites like Airbnb and HomeAway provide several types of accommodations at a broad range of prices.
7. Discover what is included in the cost
Search for what is included in the hotel prices. Some hotel offers complimentary breakfast or upgrade stays that reduce your staying cost or some hotels offer additional perks like laundry or two-way airport transfer. You can also look for discounts on services like spas, and other services. The majority of travelers search for hotel prices but not for discounts on services. To enjoy the hotel at a budget-friendly cost check what is included and what is excluded. That has a direct impact on the total savings on accommodations.
8. Check the calendar of the year
Trivago provides the calendar of the year with the prices of the hotels ranging month-wise for different cities in India and abroad. These cities are Rishikesh, Nainital, Mumbai, Mussoorie, Delhi, Mahabaleshwar, Manali, Jaipur, and Bengaluru. The prices change according to months and destinations. You can check the hotel prices and mark the calendar for lower prices. This calendar gives an idea of when to go on travel and get rooms at cheaper prices.
9. Take the benefit of group booking
Some websites offer the benefits of group booking if required rooms are booked. Make My Trip offers group booking features on hotels to maximize your savings. For that, you have to book a minimum of 6 hotel rooms with their group booking features. You will enjoy 20% off using the code: GROUPDEAL. Please note that this offer is available for selected hotels and not for all hotels. If you are a group of family or friends searching for 6 or more rooms then take advantage of this facility.
10. Use a hotel loyalty program
Many hotels offer loyalty programs to the guests to encourage repeat stay and direct booking. The loyalty program may include the incentives like points, discounts, exclusive perks, and personalized experiences. You can use this loyalty program for hotel booking for your next trip. The hotels that offer loyalty programs are Hotel Marriott, Hotel Radisson, and Hotel Taj. By using a loyalty program, you can save a significant amount on hotel booking.
11. Consider less touristy areas
The hotels in the city center or near the iconic places are costly. But you will see the hotels in the neighboring area are cheaper. It is better to choose a hotel in a different neighborhood or you can get an upgraded hotel at the same price. Instead of staying in the city search for a hotel outside a popular area. Staying outside popular and less touristy areas can be cheaper.
12. Use credit card reward
Some hotels offer rewards if the hotel is booked using a credit card. Using a credit card with a hotel membership, you can earn rewards, discounts, and room upgrades at no extra cost. Some of the famous credit cards are the Marriott Bonvoy, HDFC Credit card, Axis Bank Reserve credit card, HDFC Bank Infinia credit card, and SBI Elite credit card. Be a member of these credit cards and enjoy discounts on hotel bookings.
13. Bundle your flight + hotel
Some hotel booking platforms offer great deals on booking flights and accommodation together. This does not mean that you have no options to choose a hotel or flight. You can choose the specific hotel and flight of your choice. Some deals are only available on travel packages. This is one of the best ways to book an amazing trip for less. Bundle deals are available on Travelocity, Agoda, and Booking.com.
14. Rebooking if prices drop
Many hotels booking platform offers flexible cancellation policies. This policy gives you the chance to cancel your original booking and rebook at a lower rate. This facility is available at a certain time before check-in. The hotel prices change from day to day. Keep watch on the rate of the hotels. If the rate decreases try to rebook the rooms
15. Get reward night for longer stays
Some hotels or booking sites offer free nights on longer stays. You will get one free night when you redeem your points for four or five consecutive nights at one hotel. These benefits vary from hotel to hotel. Several hotels offer this loyalty program including Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, and IHG One Reward. With Marriott Bonvoy you will get the fifth night free for every four consecutive nights. Website Hotel.com rewards night when you stay for 10 nights. For that, you have to sign in with the website.
Conclusion
With some effort, planning, and, research you can travel on a very low budget and can enjoy your hotel stay at unbeatable prices. After following these hacks, you may be shocked at how much extra money you were spending on your accommodations. Try to find your great accommodation at very lower prices for your future vacation.
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