Best Spots for Scoring Hotel Deals

If you've ever tried booking a hotel room and felt overwhelmed by all the options, you're not alone. The good news is, knowing where to look can make all the difference in snagging a killer deal. These days, online booking platforms are the bread and butter of finding competitive prices. Sites like Booking.com, Expedia, and even Google Hotels are where most people start. But here's a tip: don't forget to check the hotel's own website. Sometimes they offer exclusive prices or perks that you won't find elsewhere.

Timing is everything when it comes to booking hotels. If you're flexible with your dates, you'll have more chances to save. Prices usually drop closer to the check-in date, especially during off-peak seasons. Apps like HotelTonight specialize in these last-minute deals. So, if you're feeling spontaneous, this could be your best bet.

• Online Booking Platforms
• Timing Tricks
• Loyalty Programs
• Alternative Websites

Online Booking Platforms

When it comes to hunting for hotel deals, online booking platforms are the real MVPs. They've revolutionized the way we book rooms and scout for the best prices. You probably know the big players—Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com. They're popular for a reason: they aggregate tons of options so you can compare prices easily. But don't just settle for their first offers; dig a little deeper!

Booking.com's Genius Program

If you haven't heard of Booking.com's Genius program, you're missing out on some decent perks. Simply by creating a free account and making two bookings, you become a Genius member. This unlocks an extra 10% off certain hotels, free breakfast, or even room upgrades in some cases. It's a no-brainer if you're a frequent traveler.

Price Match Guarantees

Several platforms, like Expedia, offer a Price Match Guarantee. Say you book a hotel room only to find a lower price on a different platform or even the same platform later; reach out to customer service, and they might refund you the difference. It's like having a safety net while scoring the best hotel prices.

Direct vs. Third-Party Bookings

Here's a nifty trick: once you find a good deal on your go-to booking site, check the hotel’s official website. Sometimes they have exclusive offers or will match the platform's price with added benefits like free Wi-Fi or complimentary breakfast. Plus, booking directly often earns you more points with the hotel's loyalty program.

Hidden Gem: Blink Booking

Looking for surprise travel savings? Try Blink Booking, an app that's lesser-known but fantastic for last-minute deals if you're traveling in Europe. You book on the day itself, and the prices are sometimes too good to pass up.

All these platforms have mobile apps too, which are great for spontaneous bookings. Some apps even push out app-only deals. So, next time you're planning a trip, keep these platforms in mind and twist those hotel prices to your favor!

Timing Tricks

Grabbing the best hotel deals often comes down to one thing: timing. It might feel like a guessing game, but there are a few solid strategies to keep in mind.

Book Early or Late?

Contrary to what many think, booking early isn't always the golden rule for travelling on a budget. If your plans are set far in advance, and you're heading to a big city or a popular destination during peak season, then early booking can save you a headache later. For instance, snagging a room in New York City during the holiday season might require you to book six to twelve months out to secure decent rates.

But here's the kicker: if you're flexible, booking last-minute can actually score you amazing hotel prices. Many hotels would rather fill a room at a lower rate than let it sit empty. Apps designed for spontaneity like HotelTonight offer steep discounts on rooms for the same night or within a few days of booking. A recent study showed that same-day bookings can be 15-25% cheaper than booking months ahead.

Best Days of the Week

Think Tuesday for booking. According to some travel experts, this is the day when prices dip a bit because the weekend rush is over, and new promotions are often rolled out on Monday nights.

For check-ins, Sunday is the sweet spot. Hotels are eager to fill rooms after weekend guests check out, so Sunday night stays can be a real bargain, with reduced rates compared to weekends.

Be Sneaky with Incognito

Here's a pro tip: use your browser's incognito mode when searching for best hotel prices. Websites track your previous visit and might hike prices when they realize you're interested. Clearing cookies or searching incognito can sometimes lead to better prices.

Learning these timing tricks won't just save money, it can also make your travels more fun and flexible. It’s like getting a peek at the secret world of travel savings!

Loyalty Programs

Let's talk loyalty programs, which can seriously amp up your savings game. Hotels love loyal customers, and these programs are designed to reward you handsomely. For those who travel frequently, signing up for a loyalty program is a smart move. Brands like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG Rewards Club offer some of the best perks in the business.

So, what's in it for you? Points! With almost every stay, you accumulate points that you can eventually redeem for free nights. Pretty sweet, right? But there's more. You might also get room upgrades, early check-ins, and late check-outs without any extra charge.

How to Maximize Your Points

Firstly, always book directly through the hotel's site to earn the maximum number of points. Also, keep an eye out for promotions where you can earn double or even triple points. It might require a bit of commitment, but the rewards can be significant.

• Sign up: Join as many hotel loyalty programs as you can. It's free and opens the door to better deals.
• Use a co-branded credit card: These cards allow you to earn extra points on every dollar spent at the hotel chain.
• Look for partnerships: Some airlines and hotel chains partner up for additional benefits. You can potentially earn hotel points when you fly with certain airlines.

On average, a frequent traveler can save a few hundred dollars a year just by opting for loyalty programs. Whether you're a fan of budget travel or love basking in luxury, these programs have got something for everyone.

Alternative Websites

In the quest for the best hotel prices, lesser-known platforms can often be hidden gems. For instance, websites like Trivago aggregate results from various booking sites, giving you a broad overview of available offers in one go. This helps in comparing prices without having to open a billion tabs.

If you're up for a bit of adventure, Secret Escapes and Roomer Travel offer unique deals you might not find on mainstream sites. They specialize in exclusive offers and even reselling non-refundable rooms at a discount. It's a win-win if you’re looking to spruce up your stay with a touch of luxury without the hefty price tag.

Budget travel enthusiasts often swear by hostels or budget chain hotels for affordable stays. Websites like Hostelworld cater to this niche, providing access to a network of budget accommodations that often come with surprisingly great amenities. This is especially useful in pricey cities where traditional hotel rates can break the bank.

Travel savings can also come from checking flash sale sites like Jetsetter, which offers timed deals on a variety of accommodations. Also, platforms like Hotwire allow you to book rooms at deeply discounted rates by hiding the hotel’s identity until after purchase. It’s a bit of a gamble, but reviews and star ratings can guide you to making educated choices.

If you're tech-savvy, browser extensions like Honey can auto-apply discount codes or alert you when prices drop. These tools offer a hands-off way to keep the hunt for deals ongoing, ensuring you don't miss out on any potential savings.

For those who love data, here’s a quick table showing the estimated savings from these lesser-known sites: