Your hotel accommodations can make or break your vacation experience. You need to know how to find the right hotel so that your trip is not ruined. If you’d like to learn how to get a great hotel, keep reading the article below.
When checking for good prices at hotels, refer to online travel sites like Orbitz and Expedia. When making hotel reservations, be sure to include information regarding hotel loyalty programs in which you may hold membership. Don’t neglect to check for other discounts in which you may qualify, including AAA and AARP.
Check with any membership programs for deals. Many of them offer hotel discounts to members. People don’t always remember to check out these discounts, which can often be 10% and higher. That can save a lot of money, especially if you are staying for multiple nights. This can also net you a free hotel night.
When can you check in? Many people forget the time, then they show up early and the room isn’t ready yet. If you will be arriving early, call and ask if this is okay.
If you want to find the absolute rock bottom hotel prices, plan your trips weeks or months ahead of time. Quite a few locations will give discounts if you choose to book a room a month or more in advance. You may even be able to cut the price down by half!
If you are traveling with a pet, it is best to find a pet friendly hotel ahead of time. Be sure to call in advance and find out about their policies, regardless of website info. Always ask about what exactly a pet-friendly policy entails, as there could still be limits on breeds and sizes.
There are three things to do ahead of time if you want to bring your pet to a hotel with you. First, inquire as to whether the hotel really is a pet-friendly place. Bring along lots of plastic bags for clean ups. When you call to make reservations, try getting a room away from other guests so any noise your pet makes won’t bother people.
If you have a AAA membership, look into hotel discounts included. You would be surprised where hidden discounts may be lurking. You could save 5% or even 10% on some rooms. The savings can really add up if you’re staying multiple nights.
If you go out to travel quite a bit, it’s good to get signed up for a hotel’s loyalty program. They provide rewards to those who stay with them often. These loyalty programs allow you to earn free upgrades, late check outs and even free stays.
If you tend to stay at the same hotel a lot, see about signing up for their frequent guest program. Similar to frequent flyer programs, some hotels have programs that give point for each stay. Over time, these points can really add up, allowing you to enjoy numerous upgrades, spa visits, restaurant discounts, and even free nights at the hotel.
Try out a green vacation. There are plenty of “green” hotels that take the environment into consideration. There are plenty of hotels built today with strong environmental standards. Some of the older hotels do implement green practices to be sure they are eco-friendly. Talk to your travel agent if you prefer to stay at this type of hotel.
To keep from having an unwanted major expense on your hotel bill, ask about the cost of hotel transfers before booking them. Particularly when the room price is a big deal, the hidden fee of transfer often can be the difference. Asking about this ahead of time helps you maximize your savings.
When you travel, go through AAA to find hotel accommodations easier.` AAA members can receive great hotel discounts as well as locate a rental car much more easily. Parents of younger children are likely to enjoy the free car seat provided in many locations.
Your children will be happy when you call the hotel to make sure their pool is open and working. Nothing is quite as frustrating as arriving at a hotel with children clamoring to jump in the pool only to find that it is closed.
Be sure you understand your hotel’s smoking policy if you smoke. Many have designated nonsmoking rooms. So be sure to request one of these rooms. If you smoke in a room designated as non-smoking, a big penalty can come along with it.
Look into a hotel’s pet restrictions. You may wish to stay away from hotels that permit pets if you have allergies or you fear certain animals. Rooms that allow pets may also have the odor of animals. This can be in the linens and carpet. One hotel may charge guests an arm and a leg to bring their pet, while others don’t. It does take extra effort and expense to take care of pets issues and some hotels do not take the time necessary.
With a little effort, you can find a great hotel at a great price. It is important to know when to make your reservations and what qualities to seek. Keep the aforementioned tips in mind to ensure you find the perfect hotel.