Traveling can be an exhilarating experience, but it often comes with a high price tag. As a frequent traveler, finding ways to save money on hotel stays is a must. Fortunately, there are numerous hotel hacks that can help you secure the best deals, lower rates, and enjoy a more luxurious experience without breaking the bank.
In this article, we'll explore some of the best hotel hacks for the rest of 2024, using practical tips and tricks that can make your next trip more affordable and enjoyable.
1. Utilize Hotel Loyalty Programs
One of the most effective strategies for saving money on hotel stays is to join hotel loyalty programs. Programs like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and World of Hyatt offer members exclusive access to special rates, free nights, and room upgrades. By accumulating loyalty points through frequent stays, you can enjoy benefits such as late checkouts, free breakfast, and even complimentary stays.
Step-by-Step Guide to Maximizing Loyalty Programs
- Sign Up: Join the loyalty program of your favorite hotel chains.
- Book Direct: Always book through the hotel’s website to earn points.
- Stay Often: The more you stay, the more points you earn.
- Take Advantage of Promotions: Keep an eye on special promotions to earn extra points.
2. Leverage Hotel Credit Cards
Hotel credit cards can be a traveler's best friend. These cards often come with generous sign-up bonuses, free hotel nights, and loyalty points. The right card can also offer additional perks like room upgrades, free wi-fi, and lower room rates.
Best Hotel Credit Cards for 2024
- Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Card: Offers a free night annually and 6x points on Marriott purchases.
- Hilton Honors American Express Card: Provides 7x points on Hilton purchases and complimentary Silver status.
3. Look for Free Breakfast and Other Amenities
When booking a hotel room, always check if the rate includes free breakfast. This can save you a significant amount of money, especially on longer stays. Some hotel chains also offer other complimentary amenities such as free wi-fi, access to the gym, and airport shuttle services.
How to Find Hotels with Free Breakfast
- Filter Your Search: Use online travel agencies to filter hotels that offer free breakfast.
- Loyalty Programs: Many loyalty programs include breakfast for elite members.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews on social media and travel websites to confirm the availability of free breakfast.
4. Book During Shoulder Seasons
Traveling during shoulder seasons—periods between the high and low tourist seasons—can lead to lower prices and fewer crowds. This is often the best time to find great deals on hotel stays and flights. This was a key foundational principle when we discussed the ultimate 3 week European travel itinerary earlier this year!
Best Time to Travel
- Spring and Fall: These are typically the best seasons for budget travel to popular destinations, but can vary depending on region. Europe is cheapest in the late Winter to early Spring, whereas Latin America can be cheapest in the Fall.
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: Room rates are usually lower during weekdays.
5. Take Advantage of Last-Minute Bookings
If you're someone whose workplace has an incredible PTO policy, last-minute bookings can be a great way to snag a cheaper rate. Hotels often lower prices to fill unsold rooms, and apps like HotelTonight specialize in last-minute deals.
Apps and Websites for Last-Minute Bookings
- HotelTonight: Specializes in last-minute hotel bookings.
- Last Minute Travel: Offers discounts on hotels, flights, and vacation packages.
6. Use Gift Cards and AAA Memberships
Gift cards and memberships such as AAA can provide additional savings on hotel bookings. Many hotel chains offer discounted rates to AAA members, and gift cards can be purchased at a discount through various platforms.
Where to Buy Discounted Gift Cards
- Raise: Buy and sell gift cards for popular hotel brands.
- Gift Card Granny: Offers discounted gift cards for hotels and travel services.
7. Compare Rates and Book Directly
On this site, we are big proponents of travel portals. Usually, you can leverage your credit cards on travel portals for discounts, cash back or big-time points multipliers that can be used on future travel. However, sometimes it's best to just...book direct!
Before finalizing your hotel booking, compare rates across multiple platforms to ensure you're getting the best price. Often, booking directly through the hotel's website can yield a lower price or additional perks.
Tools for Comparing Hotel Rates
- Google Hotel Search: Compare prices from various booking sites.
- Trivago: Aggregates rates from different booking platforms.
8. Utilize Travel Credit Card Points
Regular readers of this site will now know that I'm aroused thanks to the mere mention of travel points. Travel credit cards can help offset the cost of your hotel stays. By using cards that earn points on everyday purchases, you can accumulate points to redeem for free hotel nights or room upgrades.
Best Travel Credit Cards for Hotel Stays
- Chase Sapphire Preferred: Earns 2x points on travel and dining. It's also the lowest annual fee on this list, clocking in at a paltry $95, making this a terrific starter card for anyone looking to break into the points and miles game.
- American Express Platinum: Offers 5x points on flights and hotels booked through Amex Travel. You also get an annual $200 travel credit when booking hotels through the Fine Hotels and Resorts portal.
-Capital One Venture X: The newest entrant to the travel credit card game, this one holds a special place in my wallet. You can score 10x points on hotels booked through the Capital One Travel Portal, as well as 5x on flights and rental cars. You also get an annual $300 travel credit.
9. Request Room Upgrades
There are a few great ways to attempt to score a room upgrade. When checking in, politely ask the hotel staff if any complimentary room upgrades are available. This simple request can sometimes result in a better room or additional amenities.
How to Successfully Request an Upgrade
- Be Polite: Approach the front desk with a smile and friendly demeanor.
- Mention Special Occasions: If you're celebrating a special occasion, let the staff know.
-Send a Note Ahead of Time: Hotels that know you're excited to stay with them are more likely to "surprise and delight" their loyal customers with upgrades. This worked for my wife and I in Italy when we got a double room upgrade!
- Check In Late: Upgrades are more likely available later in the day when the hotel's occupancy is clearer.
10. Monitor Price Drops and Rebook
After booking your hotel room, keep an eye on price drops. If you notice a lower rate for the same room, contact the hotel to see if they will match the new price or rebook at the lower rate.
Tools to Track Price Drops
- Pruvo: Monitors hotel prices and notifies you of price drops.
- Hopper: Predicts price changes and advises the best time to book. This tool is also now built into the Capital One Travel Portal, and even offers a price matching feature if you find the fare lower somewhere else.
11. Explore So-Called Travel Hacks on Social Media
Social media platforms like TikTok have become hotspots for travel tips and hacks. From finding cheap flights to scoring free hotel nights, these platforms offer a wealth of information for budget-savvy travelers.
Popular TikTok Travel Hacks
- Booking Secret Rates: Influencers often share how to access hidden discounts.
- Using Airline Miles: Tips on how to convert airline miles into hotel stays.
12. Book Affordable Accommodations in New Cities
When traveling to a new city, consider all types of accommodations, including boutique hotels, budget hotels, and luxury properties. Often, smaller hotels can offer a unique experience at a lower price.
How to Find Affordable Accommodations
- Booking.com: Offers a wide range of hotels, from budget to luxury.
- Airbnb: Provides options for unique stays at lower prices.
13. Leverage Travel Hacking Strategies
Travel hacking involves using a combination of credit card points, loyalty programs, and travel deals to minimize expenses. Frequent travelers can benefit greatly from these strategies.
Effective Travel Hacking Tips
- Stack Points: Use both hotel loyalty points and credit card points for maximum savings.
- Book Flights and Hotels Together: Package deals can offer significant discounts.
14. Be Aware of Additional Fees
Always read the fine print before booking to avoid unexpected fees. Some hotels charge for amenities like parking, gym access, and resort fees.
How to Avoid Additional Fees
- Ask Before You Book: Inquire about any additional fees at the time of booking.
- Join Loyalty Programs: Elite members often get fees waived.
15. Plan for Long Flights and Layovers
Long flights can be exhausting, but planning ahead can make the experience more bearable. Pack essentials like an eye mask, earplugs, and snacks. Consider booking a hotel room during long layovers to rest and recharge.
Tips for Surviving Long Flights
- Comfortable Clothing: Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures.
- Entertainment: Download movies or books to keep yourself occupied.
16. Utilize Travel Agents for Exclusive Deals
Travel agents often have access to exclusive rates and package deals that aren't available to the general public. Using a travel agent can be a great way to find affordable accommodations and flight deals.
Benefits of Using a Travel Agent
- Expertise: Travel agents can offer personalized advice and recommendations.
- Exclusive Access: Agents often have access to special rates and discounts. My in-laws still use a travel agent and frequently get exclusive dinner reservations, private tours, and even Disney discounts!
17. Join Airline and Hotel Elite Status Programs
Elite status programs for airlines and hotels can offer numerous benefits, including room upgrades, free stays, and access to exclusive lounges. By accumulating points and miles, you can achieve elite status and enjoy these perks.
How to Achieve Elite Status
- Frequent Travel: The more you travel, the quicker you can achieve elite status.
- Credit Card Benefits: Some travel credit cards offer automatic elite status.
Through both of these tips, my wife and I have been upgraded on Delta countless times, saving us thousands of dollars a year on seat upgrades.
18. Optimize Your Travel Dates for the Best Rates
Flexible travel dates can lead to significant savings. Use fare comparison tools to identify the cheapest rates and book during off-peak times.
Tools for Finding the Best Travel Dates
- Google Flights: Allows you to see price trends and find the cheapest dates to fly.
- Skyscanner: Offers a flexible date search option to find the best deals.
19. Consider Alternative Accommodations
In addition to traditional hotels, consider alternative accommodations like vacation rentals, hostels, and bed and breakfasts. These options can often provide a more personalized experience at a lower cost.
Platforms for Alternative Accommodations
- Vrbo: Focuses on vacation rentals and unique stays.
- Hostelworld: Lists budget-friendly hostels around the world.
-Marriott Homes and Villas: The big hotel chain's response to AirBnB and Vrbo, you can often snag specials and last minute deals on this lesser known home rental service.
20. Stay Informed with Travel News and Updates
Keeping up with the latest travel news and updates can help you stay informed about new deals, travel advisories, and changes in airline and hotel policies.
Best Sources for Travel News
- Travel + Leisure: Offers the latest news and travel tips.
- The Points Guy: Provides updates on loyalty programs, credit cards, and travel deals, and is my personal favorite.
Conclusion
Traveling doesn't have to be expensive. By implementing these hotel hacks, you can enjoy luxury properties, free hotel nights, and lower rates without compromising on comfort. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your next trip, these tips will help you make the most of your travel budget and ensure a memorable and affordable experience.
Remember, the key to effective travel hacking is to stay flexible, be informed, and take advantage of all available resources. With the right strategies, you can turn your travel dreams into reality without breaking the bank. Happy travels!
Comments