Frequent travelers maximize their elite status perks and save money on hotels. But there are some lesser-known tricks that can level up their game even more. These secrets may not be familiar to everyone, but they can make a big difference in how much you save money on hotel bookings and what extras you enjoy.
From digging deeper into loyalty programs to trying out new booking methods, these best way to save money on hotels can take your stays to the next level. By exploring these insider tricks, you can make your travels smoother, more comfortable, and even more budget-friendly.
5 Ways to Get the Best Hotel Rates
Let us see some of the best ways to get lower hotel rates.
1. Join Loyalty Programs
Many hotel chains offer loyalty programs that provide various perks and benefits to frequent guests. By joining these programs, travelers can earn points for each stay, which can be redeemed for free nights, room upgrades, or other rewards.
Additionally, loyalty program members often receive exclusive discounts and promotions, helping them save money on hotel bookings. By joining, you get more benefits such as:
Earn Points for Every Stay
Hotel loyalty programs typically award members points for each qualifying stay at their properties. This is the best way to save money on hotels, guaranteed.
Free Nights and Room Upgrades
One of the primary benefits of accumulating points through loyalty programs is the ability to redeem them for complimentary hotel stays.
Exclusive Discounts and Promotions
Loyalty program members often receive exclusive access to special discounts and promotions hotel chains offer.
Priority Check-In and Late Checkout
Many hotel loyalty programs offer priority check-in and late checkout privileges to their elite members. This means that loyalty program members may have expedited check-in processes, allowing them to bypass long lines and access their rooms more quickly upon arrival.
Personalized Service and Recognition
Hotel loyalty programs often strive to provide personalized service and recognition to their members. Elite members may receive special amenities or welcome gifts upon arrival, personalized greetings from hotel staff, and enhanced customer service throughout their stay.
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2. Utilize Corporate Discounts
The best way to save money on hotels is by using corporate discounts. Many companies negotiate discounted rates with hotel chains as part of their corporate travel policies. These negotiated rates are typically lower than those offered to individual travelers or non-corporate guests.
By leveraging these corporate discounts, frequent business travelers can access preferred pricing for their hotel accommodations, resulting in significant cost savings over time.
To take advantage of corporate discounts, travelers should book their hotel accommodations through the company’s designated travel portal or booking platform. These portals often feature negotiated rates with preferred hotel partners, allowing employees to access discounted pricing while ensuring compliance with corporate travel policies and procedures.
Corporate discounts can result in substantial savings, particularly for travelers who frequently visit the same destinations for work. By consistently booking hotels at corporate rates, frequent business travelers can reduce their overall business travel expenses and maximize their company’s travel budget.
3. Stay in Newly Opened Hotels
Keep an eye out for newly opened hotels in your destination city. New hotels often offer special introductory rates or promotions to attract guests during their initial launch period. It is another best way to save money on hotels.
Attractive Introductory Rates
These discounted rates are often significantly lower than standard rates, allowing travelers to enjoy premium accommodations at a fraction of the cost.
Less Crowded Environment
As newly opened hotels are still establishing their clientele, travelers can enjoy a less crowded and more tranquil environment compared to more established properties.
Personalized Service and Attention
Hotel staff at newly opened properties are often eager to impress and provide exceptional service to guests.
Potential for Repeat Benefits
Establishing a positive relationship with a newly opened hotel during its launch phase may lead to future benefits for travelers. As the hotel matures and gains recognition, guests who supported the property in its early stages may receive preferential treatment, loyalty rewards, or exclusive offers.
4. Negotiate Directly with Hotels
Instead of relying solely on online business travel booking platforms, try negotiating directly with hotels for better rates. Contact the hotel’s sales or reservations department and inquire about corporate rates, group discounts, or special promotions. Negotiating directly with hotels can often result in lower prices or additional perks that may not be available through third-party booking sites. That is why it is the best way to save money on hotels. Some benefits include:
Personalized Approach
Direct negotiation with hotels allows travelers to engage in personalized communication with hotel staff, enabling them to tailor their requests and negotiate terms based on their specific needs and preferences. This personal touch can lead to a more favorable outcome compared to automated online booking platforms.
Access to Unadvertised Deals
Hotels may offer unadvertised deals or discounts that are not available through third-party booking sites. By directly contacting the hotel’s sales or reservations department, travelers can inquire about any hidden promotions or special offers that could result in significant savings on their accommodations.
Flexibility in Rate Negotiation
Negotiating directly with hotels allows travelers to negotiate hotel rates and terms. Hotel staff may be more willing to accommodate requests for discounted rates, room upgrades, or complimentary amenities, especially if travelers are flexible with their travel dates or willing to book multiple nights.
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5. Bundle Hotel Stays with Other Travel Expenses
One of the best ways to save money on hotels is to bundle. Look for opportunities to bundle hotel stays with other travel expenses, such as flights or rental cars. Many travel websites offer package deals that combine multiple trip components at a discounted rate.
Travel websites may offer exclusive deals and promotions for bundled packages that are not available for individual bookings. By bundling hotel stays with other travel services, frequent business travelers can access special discounts and save money on hotel bookings.
Bundled packages may include additional perks or inclusions that enhance the deal’s overall value. For example, some packages may include complimentary breakfast, airport transfers, or travel insurance, providing travelers with added convenience and savings.
Use the Best Way to Save Money on Hotel Bookings
Next time you book a hotel, consider these factors. For instance, if loyalty benefits aren’t a priority, consider opting for the best deal available. Doing so could free up funds to splurge on experiences or treats that will enhance your travel experience and create lasting memories.
You can also leverage the corporate travel management solution, itilite. With itilite, accessing top-notch corporate hotel deals is effortless. This platform secures the best rates on your behalf and negotiates bulk discounts directly with hotels. By leveraging itilite, you can seamlessly book accommodations at highly competitive prices.
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