The early bird doesn’t always get the worm… or cheapest price.
When budgeting for a vacation, hotels are often one of the biggest expenses.
As such, rates can change drastically depending on the day.
A woman booking a hotel.Margot Cavin/Travel + Leisure
Ahead, were breaking down the truth behind these age-old questions while providing some more money-saving tips.
One key consideration is the season in which you’ll be traveling.
While booking early provides more hotel options, it doesnt always mean better prices.
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Third-party sites may also have discounts for spontaneous stays.
If you do book a last-minute deal, Gomez emphasizes the importance of purchasingtravel insurance.
For international hotels, the study suggested booking on Thursdays for slightly better savings of six percent.
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More Money-saving Tips for Booking Hotels
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Sign up for loyalty programs.
Most of the time, it pays to stick with one hotel chain.
Many hotel brands offer free loyalty programs that provide members with discounted rates and other perks.
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stay.Hilton Honors,IHG One Rewards,World of Hyatt, andMarriott Bonvoyare among the most popularhotel loyalty programs.
Third-party booking sites may also have rewards programs that you’re free to take advantage of.
For example, Hotels.coms freeOne Key programsaves travelers 10 percent or more at over 100,000 hotels worldwide.
Be flexible with your travel dates.
As previously mentioned, hotels use dynamic pricing.
you could splurge on the best hotels for half the price.
Or give up that aforementioned flexibility altogether.
If your plans are fully locked in, look at prepaid non-refundable rates, says Rowan.
Book directly with the hotel or use a travel advisor.
Hotels often match third-party rates while offering additional benefits like flexible cancellation policies or free breakfast, says Gomez.
A good travel advisor can also book directly, so dont hesitate to ask!
Stay longeryes, really.
For the best hotel rates, consider booking a longer stay.
According to Parker, “The longer you stay, the bigger discount you get.”
Many hotels offer special perks like one night free on extended stays.
Check your credit card travel portal.
Manycredit cardsoffer discounted hotel rates and perks for cardholders.
), provide exclusive discounts or points that can be redeemed for stays.
Look for package deals.
Bundling your hotel with flights or other travel components can sometimes lead to major savings, says Gomez.
Many vendors offer discounts when booking packages instead of individual components.
Get savvy.
More websites offer unique ways to save when you take advantage of their exclusive offers.
Another pro tip: Download the mobile app for the lowest Hot Rate prices.
