How to Score Unbelievable Hotel Discounts

Ah, those amazing hotel discounts… Curious about how to score them and leave more money for adventures, shopping, and delicious food? Well, guess what? Today is your lucky day! We’re about to let you in on the insider secrets that will pave the way to capturing those elusive hotel discounts. Your journey begins here: 

Booking Like a Pro

Booking your hotel reservation can make a significant difference in costs. Start with sites like Kayac , Expedia, or Priceline to get an overview of hotels in your desired area. But don’t stop there! Go on to research those hotels on your own. Look for promotion codes and perks such as free parking, breakfast, or WiFi. It’s all about digging deeper and not just relying on the surface information.

And here’s a pro tip: don’t neglect a hotel’s own website. Some chains promise the best rate when you book via their site. Once you know the lay of the land, select a few favorites and pick up the phone. Tell the hotel the price you found via other sites and see if they can beat it. You’ll be surprised how often this works!

Last-Minute Bookings

Apps like HotelTonight specialize in helping last-minute travelers get cheap hotel rooms. Sites such as HotWire also list deals for just a day or two in advance. This strategy can be a goldmine for spontaneous travelers or those with flexible schedules.

However, keep in mind that last-minute bookings don’t work in every circumstance. Traveling for a crowded conference or holiday can lead to a spike in demand — and price. So, use this strategy wisely!

Alternative Lodging Options

Finding a hotel isn’t your only lodging option. You can rent a room, apartment, or entire house via sites like Airbnb and HomeAway. These platforms can often provide more space and amenities for less money than traditional hotels.

Hostels are another great option for budget travelers, especially those venturing outside of the U.S. Most hostels offer a handful of private rooms with en suite bathrooms, so you don’t need to share a dorm-style room unless you want to.

Location, Location, Location

Staying in the heart of the city typically costs more. Save a few bucks by staying away from the city center, but near public transportation for easy downtown access. This way, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: affordable accommodation and convenient access to attractions.

For example, in Chicago, you can book the Hyatt Regency O’Hare for $152 per night, according to a recent search on Expedia. The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the Chicago Transit Authority’s Blue Line, giving you easy access to the airport and downtown Chicago. By comparison, staying at the Hyatt Regency downtown will run you $299 per night.

Special Discounts

Seniors, government employees, students, members of the military, and AAA members may qualify for discounted hotel rates when traveling. Ask the hotel before booking or look for deals via websites such as AARP, Military.com, and AAA.com. It never hurts to ask, and you might just snag a fantastic deal!

Credit Card Rewards

Many credit cards offer rewards that can be redeemed for hotel stays. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, and the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers 2x miles on every purchase. These points or miles can add up quickly and lead to significant savings on hotel stays.

Loyalty Programs

Most hotel chains offer loyalty programs where you can earn points for each stay and then redeem those points for free nights. Some programs also offer perks like free WiFi, late checkout, and room upgrades. If you travel frequently, joining a hotel loyalty program can lead to substantial savings.

Package Deals

Many travel websites offer package deals that include both hotel and airfare. These packages can often be cheaper than booking each component separately. So, if you’re planning a trip that includes a flight, it’s worth checking out the package deals.

Off-Peak Travel

Hotels often offer discounts during their off-peak seasons to attract more guests. If your travel dates are flexible, consider traveling during these times to take advantage of lower rates. Not only will you save money on your hotel, but you’ll also likely find fewer crowds at popular attractions.

Booking Like a Pro and Saving Big

You’ve cracked the code on finding those elusive hotel discounts like a pro. But hold on, this is just the beginning of your budget-savvy traveler journey. From checking out alternative digs to snagging special discounts, squeezing perks from your credit card, and racking up those loyalty points, you’re all set to dive into the world of saving on stays.

So, whether you’re the spontaneous type, a meticulous planner, or someone who likes to mix and match options, the land of hotel discounts is your playground. Go ahead, explore, enjoy the savings, and savor your next adventure – it’s just a few clicks away.