Accommodation is one of the principal costs travellers face and there are countless strategies that can be used in order to cut costs and find the cheapest hotel room available. Whether it’s telling the reception clerk that it’s your honeymoon, or waiting until the very last minute to book, we’ve all tried one way or another to reduce the cost. It’s a time-consuming project and no matter what budget you are travelling on, finding the ideal lodging at the best price can be a challenge. But put the panic on hold and check out this clever list of booking tips and tricks:
Be flexible
Flexibility with your travel dates will allow you to take advantage of fluctuations in room prices. Rates change and you may find that it’s cheaper to stay at a hotel from Saturday to Tuesday than from Wednesday to Friday.
Book via mobile
Try booking using your mobile phone or app – some hotels offer “mobile only” rates. By using the HotelsCombined mobile app to compare your hotel options, you just might find a cheaper price.
Who doesn’t love a free extra?
Keep an eye out for hotels offering complimentary breakfast, WIFI or cancellation. These added elements will save you a few dollars when it comes to settling the bill.
Book the Standard
Standard rooms are generally the most affordable hotel rooms.
Think independent
Look beyond the big hotel chains. Independent hotels can offer excellent rates and services and are often up to 50 per cent cheaper than major chains.
Show you are loyal
Joining Hotel Loyalty programs or membership clubs can be your ticket to discounted rates or upgrade offers. These programs are usually free to join and you’ll be able to take advantage of the benefits (better room placement or amenities, discount codes and sales) for your next stay.
Check your rate
Make sure the rate you are being offered includes taxes and additional fees. The prices listed on HotelsCombined include all of these fees so you know what you are in for, upfront.
Know your seasons
Understand the peak seasons and the low seasons, and the events that will be occurring in the city you are travelling to at that time. These factors will affect the rate and availability of hotel rooms.
Plan in advance
Booking at least 30 days in advance will ensure you get the pick of the widest range of hotel room options. Not only can room prices can jump in the lead up to a particular date, but the availability and room choice will be limited.
Extend your stay
While it’s not necessarily cheaper to book more than one night at a time, occasionally hotels do offer a fourth or a fifth night free.
Shop around online
Research is the key and you should be sure to check out as many options as possible. There are hundreds of sites out there that offering different rates and options. HotelsCombined.com compares them all, simply and efficiently. You’ll find the best room rate every time, guaranteed.
Words: HotelsCombined