6 hotel hacks you need to know
- Book early or last minute, and stay flexible on dates and location to find lower accommodation prices.
- Book out of season to find lower prices and quieter stays, but check local seasons before booking.
- You can also mention a special occasion when booking, as this may help with upgrades, though it depends on availability and hotel policy.
When booking a hotel, it’s always helpful to know how to make the most of your stay. This guide will provide you with six of the hotel hacks that you can use to your advantage while traveling, including hotel hacks to save money and how to get room upgrades.
6 useful hotel hacks
1. Choose your booking time wisely
The amount of time between your booking and your stay is one factor that will significantly impact the total price. When it comes to package holidays, many hotels will advertise their lower-priced holidays as and when they become available, while for others, you may just have to be vigilant about when you book. Usually, the best times to book a hotel are either way in advance or very close to the stay date. This is because hotels like to be able to plan for the number of guests they’ll have staying. In contrast, last-minute bookings are more affordable because hotels might want to fill their rooms.
2. Be flexible on days and dates
Being flexible with your travel dates can also help lower the overall cost of your accommodation. Midweek stays often come with lower prices than weekends, while prices for travel and accommodation can rise during school holidays and public holidays. If your plans allow, traveling at less popular times, such as on an early or late flight, may also help. Hotels may also adjust their rates based on demand, so it can help to book promptly if you find an option that suits your plans.
3. Opt for a different location
The price of your hotel is also affected by where you stay. Being flexible with location does not mean changing your destination altogether. It can simply mean staying in a different part of town, perhaps somewhere less central, or, if you’re planning a package vacation, choosing a different beach resort. Many platforms let you compare locations, facilities, prices and flight options, making it easier to find an option that suits you.
4. Use filters and reviews
Opting to book your hotel accommodation through Booking.com can help you compare options more easily. You can toggle between different filters, including pricing, facilities and even reviews. In the case of the review filter, you can read transparent guest testimonials on potential accommodation options. Sometimes, you may find a hidden three-star hotel with positive reviews that outshines a more premium five-star option.
5. Search for seasonal deals
Booking a hotel out of season can mean lower prices and quieter periods around the pool and in restaurants. Seasons vary around the world, so check the local time of year before you book to avoid traveling during peak summer.
6. Inform the hotel about special occasions
During the booking process, you’ll often be able to add additional instructions or messages for the hotel. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, an anniversary or you’re planning on proposing to your partner, mentioning a special occasion may help, but upgrades depend on availability and hotel policy.