Summer vacation time is here. We have some timely tips that can save you money if you plan on staying at a hotel during any upcoming trip.
- Book with the hotel directly – Most hotels have to pay a percentage of the room fee if the room is booked through a third party. Most will offer you the best rate if you book directly from their website. However, you should still check around. If you can find a lower rate from a third party, contact the hotel directly and ask if they’ll match it. Odds are, they will.
- Wait – Believe it or not, arranging for your accommodations can get you cheaper room rates if you book closer to the date you actually want the room. That’s because an empty room on any given night is revenue the hotel can never recover. Studies show that if you wait, you can cut as much as 20% off your bill
- Join the hotel’s loyalty program – Most loyalty programs are offered at no charge. Even if you never plan on visiting any of that company’s hotels in the future, many loyalty programs will offer instant perks like free wi-fi or beverage credits.
- Large parties and long stays should look into Airbnb – If you’re traveling with a party that’s larger than can fit in a single hotel room or you’re planning an extended stay, renting a house through Airbnb can reduce your costs by as much as 33%.
Wherever you decide to stay on your summer trip, we wish you safe travels and happy memories!