How to Get Hotel Discounts

Vacations are an expensive prospect, especially in today's economy. Even cheaper or budget-friendly hotels often have high price tags because the hotels have high overhead costs. In addition to paying electric and utility bills, the hotels are also responsible for paying staff, cleaning costs, and other costs that raise the price of your room. With hotel discounts, you pay less money for your hotel room, which lowers the overall cost of your vacation.

Book Early or Late

If you want to save money on hotel costs, book your room early. Hotels often list cheaper prices early in the year and lock-in that price. Even if the hotel raises its rates before your stay, you still get the lower price. At the same time, don't be afraid to take advantage of last-minute deals. The longer a hotel sits empty, the more money it loses. A hotel would rather offer a lower rate and fill a room, then keep the room sitting empty. The rates may go down in the weeks or days before your stay.

Join a Loyalty Program

While not all hotel chains have a loyalty program, several do. Wyndham has its own loyalty program and the chain owns Wyndham hotels, Super 8, Ramada, Days Inn, Howard Johnson, Travelodge, and several other budget-friendly chains. The Red Roof Inn also has its own loyalty program. Every time you stay at an approved hotel and show your card, you earn points. The points give you access to rewards, including free hotel stays and discounts.

Bundle Your Stay

Bundling your stay lets you save money by getting a discount on two or more items. Check with the hotel for any bundles it may have, such as a hotel room and a round of golf. Only take advantage of the bundles you actually want. If you spend more money on a gold package, but don't like golf, then you lose money. Ask for any discounts that the hotel has, such as discounted tickets to a local amusement park. Keep in mind that some hotels offer free dinner, drinks, or breakfast, which also helps you save money.

AAA Membership

If you travel often, opt for a AAA membership. While the roadside assistance is helpful, the company also offers discounts that save you big bucks. For example, the Miami Valley Ohio chapter of AAA offers discounts on local hotel rooms, hotel rooms in other cities and states, amusement parks, and even rental cards. The savings pay for the total cost of your membership, even if you only travel a few times a year.

Other Discounts

Don't forget about discounts from warehouse clubs like Sam's Club or Costco and discounts from your credit card. Discover offers discounts at some chains, but only when you use your Discover card. Warehouse clubs have deals with hotels like Holiday Inn, which lets you get a discount just by using your card when you check into the hotel. Every method earns you cheaper hotel rooms.

References:

Tips From a Former Hotel Manager

Hotel Discounts