Hotels in United States

How to Save on Hotels in United States

While it is wise to plan in advance, having some flexibility or waiting on hotel bookings could save significant amounts.

NerdWallet found that hotel booking within one week of travel (on average 21% cheaper). Research discount websites before calling directly to see if the hotel can match it.

1. Book Direct

Booking direct can give you more flexibility, such as lower prices, free WiFi or additional perks.

Many hotels honor loyalty membership discounts (AARP or AAA), that may not be advertised online, so make sure you call ahead to inquire. Some hotels even provide extended stay discounts!

If you have made a nonrefundable hotel reservation, try Pruvo to alert you if prices drop before your trip and save a bundle - especially helpful if your itinerary can change quickly! This service could save a bundle, making life simpler when booking flexible itineraries!

2. Book a Room Type That Costs Less

Though hotel booking search engines can be invaluable resources, travelers who truly seek the best rates may find greater savings by calling hotels directly and making reservations directly. By doing this, travelers may often receive better rates as well as additional perks such as free parking or breakfast or even an upgrade depending on how friendly the manager is.

If your trip is in the works, start searching for hotel rooms regularly and keeping an eye on rates. Make sure you qualify for membership savings (AARP or AAA) as well as credit card discounts and travel rewards programs; flexible dates might make searching hotels with Sunday or Friday check-in easier than others.

3. Ask for a Discount

One of the easiest ways to save on hotels is by asking for discounts. Most people forget this step, yet it could help save significant sums of money.

There are many hotels with unpublished lower rates that do not advertise online, or offer discounts for specific groups like AARP, AAA, government employees or members of specific insurance companies such as USAA or Allstate.

When calling to book your room, ask the front desk about these discounts and be polite and friendly when making inquiries. If they do not offer one to you, perhaps another hotel might be better.

4. Book Off-Season

Every destination has peak, shoulder, and off-season periods when hotel rates can be substantially less expensive - avoiding these times can save money!

Many hotels provide discounts to travelers who belong to organizations like AARP, AAA, government employees and students - these offers can lead to significant savings for these travelers.

The day of the week can have an impactful influence on hotel prices. Hotels expect more business travelers during weekends, which leads them to charge higher rates than weekdays; however, once these travelers have left town they often can reduce room rates through supply and demand effects.

5. Book a Room for Multiple Nights

Booking multiple nights of hotel stay can often result in lower prices as occupancy rates fluctuate and different rooms might offer reduced pricing one night over the other.

Hotel prices depend heavily on the day of the week. For instance, hotels in New York City might charge more on New Year's Eve than on an April Tuesday.

If a nonrefundable hotel rate proves too costly for your budget, try sites such as RoomerTravel and Cancelon to resell it at a reduced price for an administration fee. Although this method requires additional work on your part, it could potentially save money.

6. Book a Room at the Last Minute

Hotel prices often fluctuate, and booking your room last-minute can often provide substantial savings. A 2022 NerdWallet study indicates that hotels tend to be 13% less costly when booked last-minute.

Do keep in mind, though, that hotel prices may increase nearer your stay date. If possible, wait until your day of arrival before booking your room.

Before booking your travel, be sure to investigate price guarantees. Some travel booking sites provide refunds if you discover a lower hotel room rate after having already reserved it; this can be particularly helpful if you travel frequently.