Mix and match our hotel booking hacks to maximize your savings when planning your trips.
Did you know that the average traveler overpays for hotel rooms by 20-30%? Yeah, we were shocked too! But here’s the thing… scoring amazing hotel deals isn’t about luck, it’s about knowing where to look and when to book. I can tell you that finding hidden deals on hotels is a multi-step process, but always worth the effort.
We’ve spent years cracking the code on hotel savings, and that effort has paid off. From last-minute booking apps to loyalty program hacks, we’ve discovered some seriously great ways to slash those room rates.
Remember, if one person pays $300 a night for a king room and someone else pays $200 a night, the room is the same, the service is the same, the amenities are the same. I’d prefer to pay $200 🙂
Ready to become a hotel booking ninja? Let’s dive into our favorite money-saving strategies! 🏨
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▶️ Watch the Hotel Rebooking video on our YouTube channel
1. Join Hotel Loyalty Programs – Your Gateway to Savings
Let’s start with one of our favorite money-saving tricks – hotel loyalty programs! We’re huge fans of programs like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and World of Hyatt. Trust us, these aren’t just fancy membership cards – they’re your ticket to some seriously sweet perks. Think free nights, room upgrades, and exclusive member-only rates that’ll make your wallet happy! 🏨
It does take some concerted effort. We made an effort in 2024 to renew our Platinum Elite status at Marriott, and even more important, to grab Globalist at Hyatt (easily our favorite program). Not everyone can travel as many nights perhaps as we do given the full-time nature of our travel, but everyone can get some level of status.
▶️ Watch our 12-minute Status Matching Video on our YouTube channel:
➡️ READ: Status Matching Tips for Maximizing Travel Benefits
The best part? Points stack up faster than you might think. You’ll earn them for stays, dining, and even car rentals in some cases. Pro tip: pair your loyalty membership with a co-branded credit card to really maximize those points. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for those bonus point promotions – they’re like finding extra treasure in your travel chest!
Look for credit cards that already include status if you want a secret short-cut.
➡️ Here are our top travel credit cards
2. Best Rate Guarantees – Your Price-Match Best Friend
Here’s a secret many travelers miss: most major hotel chains offer best rate guarantees. If you spot a lower rate on another site for the same room type and dates, they’ll not only match it but often throw in a sweet bonus.
It does take an extra step, but remember, hotels are competing for your stay. They would even more prefer your stay and a direct booking. Try this, it works.
3. Timing is Everything
Oh boy, do we love talking about strategic booking. Here’s the scoop: booking on Tuesdays can often score you better rates (weird but true!) And if you’re flexible with your travel dates, aim for shoulder season – that sweet spot between peak and off-peak when rates drop but the weather’s still fab.
I can’t tell you how many times I adjust a day or two forwards or backwards and the rate goes down 20% – 50%. If you are flexible, try it out. Move your dates around. Maybe avoid a weekend, or if in a business area, look at the weekend instead.
You’ll be shocked at how much rates change day to day even for the same room and property.
4. Prepaid Rates – The Committed Traveler
Ready to commit? Prepaid rates can save you some serious cash – we’re talking up to 20% sometimes! Sure, they’re usually non-refundable, but if your plans are set in stone, why not pocket the savings? Just remember to consider travel insurance if you’re going this route. Better safe than sorry.
Personally, this is a strategy we used to use all the time. And at times we still do. But I much prefer cancellable booking for many reasons. Plans change. Rates go down (and then you can use our rebooking trick). Even though we at times pay a bit more, when we look back on the year, going for cancellable rates ultimately saves us money and flexibility.
BUT if the trip is a sure thing and coming up soon, take the discount and lock it up.
5. Off-the-Beaten-Path Locations
Want to know another money-saving hack? Look just outside the tourist hotspots. Hotels a few blocks from main attractions often offer way better rates, and you’ll get a more authentic local experience. Plus, you might discover some hidden gems that most tourists never see.
We run across many part- and full-time travelers as we roam the world. So often we run into people who just booked themselves a short bus or train ride from the city center and their savings are substantial. Many times their room is larger. And they are not in the middle of all the chaos and can retreat at the end of the day to money savings and a quieter stay. Win-Win.
6. Last-Minute Deals Through OTAs (Online Travel Agencies)
Apps like Hotel Tonight and Priceline can be lifesavers for spontaneous trips. Hotels hate empty rooms, so they often slash prices at the last minute. We’ve scored a few incredible deals this way – sometimes up to 50% off! Just be prepared to be a bit flexible about exact room types.
Once again, flexibility is key and this will not be your main strategy, but there are situations where it can work, especially when you might need a quick one or two night stay.
7. Direct Hotel Negotiations
Here’s something most people don’t try: picking up the phone! Hotels often have wiggle room on rates, especially for extended stays or group bookings. Be friendly, mention any loyalty status you have, and don’t be afraid to ask about available discounts. The worst they can say is no.
Yeah, I hate picking up the phone for anything. If that’s you, try to get the hotel manager’s email (not to the central reservation) and send an email. It might help if you have some status as well at that hotel brand.
8. Price Prediction Tools – Your Crystal Ball
Love data? So do we. Tools like Hopper and Kayak are like having a crystal ball for hotel prices. They’ll tell you whether to book now or wait for better rates. It’s like having an insider tip on when prices will drop.
I’ll be honest, I should use this more but sometimes after doing a lot of research, I’m happy with the deal. Plus, I have a good idea of what rates should be. Nevertheless, give this a shot. I’ve found their predictions and trends to be fairly accurate.
9. Onsite Benefits – The Hidden Value in Packages
Don’t just look at room rates – consider the full package! A hotel offering free breakfast, happy hour, or shuttle service might save you more than a “cheaper” option without these perks. We always do the math to include these extras in our comparisons.
Many times this sort of bundling makes all the difference. Be sure to compare apples to apples and all fees/charges both ways, but a package deal might shock you.
10. Membership and Credit Card Magic
Hotel credit cards aren’t just plastic – they’re your golden ticket to elite status and bonus points! Many cards offer automatic elite status, anniversary free nights, and bonus points on hotel stays. Just make sure to pick one that matches your travel style and spending habits.
➡️ Here are some top hotel credit cards we recommend:
Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
These strategies have helped us save thousands on hotel stays over the years. Mix and match them based on your needs, and you’ll never pay full price for a hotel room again. Remember, the best deals often come to those who do their homework and aren’t afraid to try multiple approaches. 🏨
We used to be big bookers at Airbnb. However, in the last year we’ve rarely stayed with Airbnb. First, no loyalty program. No good. Get with it, Airbnb.
Next? It is way more unpredictable than a hotel. Sure, you can have problems at a hotel but they usually are easily resolved. You can get moved to a new room. They can find you a better pillow, fresh linens, and so on. An Airbnb? You are at the mercy of the property manager – some good, some not.
We have since changed to primarily hotels and now earn loyalty status that gets us free suite upgrades, free meals, drinks, and more.
11. Score Deals at Top Resorts using RedWeek.com
With the right travel hacks, you can find deals at top resorts like Hyatt, Marriott, and Hilton, saving significantly, even during peak season. Our guide explores how to maximize your travel experience and save up to 75% on hotel and resort deals, allowing you to enjoy beachside escapes in Hawaii, Mexico, Florida, and more! The key lies in understanding how to leverage timeshare rentals, which offer access to stunning accommodations at just a fraction of the cost. Read our post to find out more about this little-known resort hack:
➡️ Affordable Luxury: Finding Deals at Top Resorts and Hotels
Time to Book Those Sweet Deals
Listen up, fellow travelers – with these insider tricks up your sleeve, you’re now equipped to save big on your next hotel adventure. They really do work with just a bit of effort on your part.
Remember, the key is to layer these strategies – combine loyalty programs with best rate guarantees, sprinkle in some strategic timing, and top it off with smart negotiation skills.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match these techniques until you find your perfect money-saving recipe. Whether you’re planning months ahead or booking last-minute, there’s always a deal waiting to be discovered.
We do not use them all, but we pick and choose on every booking. Almost always the savings are significant.
💰Now get out there and start saving – your wallet will thank you.
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