How to Save on Hotels: 13 Ultimate Tips & Tricks

Finding the perfect hotel doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, mastering the art of saving on hotels is a game-changer. As online shopping experts at Dealhack, we’ve compiled 13 ultimate tips and tricks to help you score incredible deals without sacrificing quality. Let’s dive in!

In this post, you’ll learn:

• How to use loyalty programs and maximize rewards

• Tips for booking at the right time for better rates

• The benefits of using credit card perks

• Why being flexible with dates and locations can save you big

• Insider hacks to find hidden discounts online

1. Join Hotel Loyalty Programs to Save on Hotels

Loyalty programs offer exclusive discounts, free nights, and other perks. Popular programs like Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors reward frequent travelers with points that can be redeemed for stays, upgrades, or even meals. Sign up for free to unlock benefits and enjoy a better travel experience.

• Enroll Early: Join loyalty programs before your trip to start earning rewards immediately. Early enrollment ensures you don’t miss out on perks during your stay.

• Stay Consistent: Stick to one brand to accumulate points faster for better perks. Consistent bookings lead to elite status benefits over time.

• Check Promotions: Look out for bonus points offers during peak seasons. Many programs run special promotions to help you earn points quickly.

• Leverage Status: Use your loyalty status to negotiate additional benefits. Higher tiers often come with complimentary upgrades and late checkouts.

Pro Tip: If you’re not loyal to one hotel brand, consider platforms like Hotels.com, which offer free nights after a certain number of bookings. This is another excellent way to save on hotels consistently.

2. Use Price Comparison Websites to Save on Hotels

Leverage platforms like Kayak, Trivago, and Google Hotels to compare prices across multiple booking sites. These tools often highlight deals you won’t find on the hotel’s site. Using these sites ensures you’re getting the best value for your money every time you book.

Website	Features	Ideal For
Kayak	Flight + hotel bundles, price alerts, extensive filters	Budget-conscious users
Trivago	Price comparisons, ratings, loyalty program	General users
Google Hotels	Maps integration, flexible dates, eco-certification	Location-sensitive users

• Set Alerts: Enable price alerts to monitor fluctuations and snag the best deal. Price alert tools notify you of drops so you can book at the right moment.

• Check Reviews: Use ratings and reviews to ensure the quality of the hotel. Read feedback from past guests to avoid unpleasant surprises.

• Bundle Deals: Look for packages that include flights or car rentals. Bundling travel services often results in significant savings.

• Search Incognito: Avoid price tracking by booking through private browsing. This helps prevent dynamic pricing from increasing rates.

Pro Tip: Once you find a deal, call the hotel to see if they’ll match or beat it. This tactic often works and can further help you save on hotels.

3. Book at the Right Time

Timing is everything. Research shows that booking 3-4 weeks in advance for domestic trips and 2-3 months ahead for international stays can yield the best prices. Midweek bookings and off-peak travel often come with significant discounts.

• Avoid Weekends: Weekend stays are typically more expensive than weekdays. Booking midweek can save you up to 30% on your stay.

• Track Prices: Use apps to monitor trends and identify when rates drop. Tracking tools provide insights into historical price patterns.

• Consider Cancellations: Recheck prices as cancellations can lead to new deals. Hotels often release canceled rooms at discounted rates.

• Be Flexible: Shift your trip by a day or two to save significantly. Small adjustments in dates can open up lower rates.

Pro Tip: Use tools like Hopper to track price trends and set alerts. These strategies can significantly improve your ability to save on hotels during your next trip.

4. Leverage Credit Card Rewards

Many credit cards offer travel perks like cashback, points, or statement credits for hotel bookings. Cards like Chase Sapphire Preferred or American Express Platinum provide generous travel rewards. Check your card’s benefits to see how they can work for your next trip. This is a powerful combination to save on hotels with minimal effort.

• Check Sign-Up Bonuses: Apply for cards with high initial reward offers. These bonuses often cover the cost of a free stay or two.

• Maximize Spending: Use your card for travel-related expenses to earn more points. Everyday purchases can add up to big rewards over time.

• Redeem Strategically: Use points for peak seasons to maximize value. Rewards often go further during high-demand periods.

• Know the Perks: Utilize travel insurance and other cardholder benefits. Some cards also offer access to exclusive booking platforms.

Pro Tip: Pair your credit card rewards with hotel loyalty programs for double the savings.

5. Be Flexible with Dates and Locations

Small tweaks to your travel plans can result in significant savings. Adjusting your dates by a day or two can lower costs, and exploring alternative neighborhoods often reveals hidden gems. Flexibility also helps you take advantage of flash sales and last-minute deals.

• Explore Alternatives: Consider lesser-known areas for more affordable stays. These areas often provide unique experiences at lower costs.

• Travel Off-Season: Avoid major holidays to find better deals. Off-season travel means fewer crowds and discounted rates.

• Check Multiple Dates: Adjust your booking window for significant price drops. Comparing a range of dates can reveal unexpected savings.

• Book Longer Stays: Extended bookings may come with discounted rates. Many hotels offer lower nightly rates for multi-night stays.

Pro Tip: Use filters on booking sites to prioritize deals within your budget while exploring alternative destinations. Flexibility remains a cornerstone to saving on hotels effectively.

6. Book Directly with Hotels

Booking directly often comes with perks like waived fees or complimentary amenities. Many hotels also guarantee the lowest price when you book through their website. Establishing direct contact can also give you access to room upgrades or exclusive discounts.

• Call Directly: Negotiate rates over the phone for better deals. Direct communication often leads to personalized offers.

• Ask for Upgrades: Mention special occasions to request a free upgrade. Celebrations like anniversaries can help secure added perks.

• Check Member Deals: Sign up for memberships offering direct discounts. Many hotel websites feature member-only rates.

• Avoid Third-Party Fees: Save on service fees by booking straight through the hotel. This ensures you’re not paying unnecessary middleman charges.

Pro Tip: Sign up for the hotel’s newsletter to access exclusive promotions.

7. Utilize Discount Codes and Coupons

Websites like Dealhack, RetailMeNot, and Groupon often feature coupon codes for popular hotel chains. Combining these codes with other discounts can lead to significant savings. Always double-check the terms and conditions to maximize their value.

• Check Expiry Dates: Ensure coupon codes are still valid before booking. Expired codes can’t be redeemed and could cost you time.

• Stack Discounts: Combine multiple codes for maximum savings. Look for deals that allow promo codes and cashback together.

• Use Cashback Apps: Pair codes with cashback programs for additional returns. This adds an extra layer of savings to your booking.

• Search Deals Daily: Check regularly for newly released discounts. Frequent searches can uncover flash sales or limited-time codes.

Pro Tip: Combine promo codes with cashback offers from apps like Rakuten for extra savings.

8. Opt for Non-Refundable Rates

If your travel plans are set in stone, choosing non-refundable bookings can save you up to 20% compared to flexible rates. Hotels offer these lower prices as a trade-off for guaranteeing revenue ability to save on hotels during your next trip.

Just be sure you won’t need to cancel.

• Plan Firmly: Only book non-refundable if your dates are 100% confirmed. Double-check your schedule to avoid losing money.

• Compare Savings: Check if the non-refundable option is worth the risk. Savings should outweigh the loss of flexibility.

• Buy Travel Insurance: Protect against unexpected changes in plans. Insurance adds security to otherwise risky bookings.

• Confirm Details: Double-check dates and guest names before finalizing. Small errors can result in booking issues.

Pro Tip: Ensure your plans are solid before opting for this non-refundable option.

9. Try Last-Minute Booking Apps

Apps like HotelTonight specialize in last-minute deals, offering steep discounts on unsold inventory. These apps are perfect for spontaneous trips or extended layovers, where flexibility is key. Monitor them for same-day deals for maximum savings.

• Act Fast: Last-minute deals are time-sensitive and sell out quickly. Be ready to book as soon as you spot a good rate.

• Check Location: Ensure the hotel’s location aligns with your plans. Proximity to attractions can enhance your trip.

• Look for Extras: Some apps include perks like free breakfast. Additional amenities can boost the value of your stay.

• Keep Options Open: Have backups in case availability runs out. Always plan alternatives to avoid last-minute stress.

Pro Tip: Check for same-day deals after 4 PM, when hotels are eager to fill empty rooms.

10. Look for All-Inclusive Packages

All-inclusive packages often combine lodging, meals, and activities for a lower total cost. Resorts and vacation destinations frequently offer these deals, making them ideal for families or groups. Use travel platforms to bundle for even greater savings.

• Compare Packages: Check multiple platforms for the best all-inclusive rates. Comparing options ensures you get the most value.

• Understand Inclusions: Ensure meals and activities are covered. Some packages may have hidden exclusions.

• Avoid Hidden Fees: Confirm that resort fees are included upfront. Hidden charges can inflate the overall cost.

• Bundle Travel: Combine flights, hotels, and car rentals for discounts. Bundling can save time and money during trip planning.

Pro Tip: Use platforms like Expedia or Priceline to bundle flights and hotels for extra savings.

11. Negotiate Group Discounts

Traveling with family or friends? Call the hotel directly to inquire about group rates or block booking discounts. Hotels often provide significant savings for larger parties, especially during off-peak times. Don’t hesitate to ask for added perks.

• Call Ahead: Negotiate discounts before arrival for better rates. Advance calls give you more leverage with management.

• Request Perks: Ask for free amenities like parking or breakfast. Hotels often accommodate group-specific needs.

• Book Early: Lock in group rates well in advance of your stay. Early planning ensures availability and better deals.

• Leverage Numbers: Use your group size as a bargaining tool. Larger groups can demand more substantial discounts.

Pro Tip: Larger groups can negotiate directly with management for exclusive deals.

12. Use Alternative Accommodations

Consider platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, or Hostelworld for unique stays that are often more affordable than traditional hotels. These options provide flexibility and a more local experience. Look for options with high ratings and plenty of reviews to ensure quality.

• Read Reviews: Focus on properties with consistent positive feedback. Honest guest reviews reveal potential issues.

• Check Amenities: Ensure essentials like Wi-Fi and kitchen access are included. Amenities can enhance the overall experience.

• Look for Discounts: Some hosts offer discounts for longer stays. Extended bookings can lead to significant savings.

• Verify Location: Ensure the property is close to your planned activities. Accessibility to attractions minimizes travel hassles.

Pro Tip: Verify the property’s cancellation policies to avoid unexpected fees.

13. Sign Up for Cashback Programs

Cashback portals like Rakuten, TopCashback, and Honey can earn you a percentage back on hotel bookings. These programs are simple to use and can turn a good deal into a great one. Make it a habit to check these portals before booking.

• Sign Up Free: Join cashback programs without any upfront cost. Free registration means no risk to start earning.

• Use Before Checkout: Click through the portal before finalizing bookings. This ensures cashback is tracked accurately.

• Combine with Codes: Pair cashback with discount codes for extra savings. Stacking deals can double your benefits.

• Monitor Earnings: Track your cashback rewards to ensure payouts. Regular checks help avoid missed payments.

Pro Tip: Look for seasonal promotions offering increased cashback rates. This tactic often works and can further help you save on hotels.

Detailed Comparison of Hotel Saving Strategies

Tip	Benefits	Tools/Platforms
Join Hotel Loyalty Programs	Earn points, free nights, upgrades	Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors
-	Use Hotels.com for free nights if not loyal to one brand	-
Use Price Comparison Websites	Compare prices, find exclusive deals	Kayak, Trivago, Google Hotels
-	Call hotels directly to see if they’ll match a deal	-
Book at the Right Time	Save by booking midweek or off-season	Hopper, Google Hotels
-	Track cancellations for discounted rebooked rooms	-
Leverage Credit Card Rewards	Earn cashback, points, and travel credits	Chase Sapphire Preferred, AmEx Platinum
-	Combine card rewards with loyalty programs	-
Be Flexible with Dates/Places	Find better rates with flexible schedules and locations	Booking.com, Expedia
-	Explore nearby suburbs or off-season travel	-
Book Directly with Hotels	Waive fees, access exclusive discounts	Hotel websites, phone bookings
-	Sign up for hotel newsletters for promotions	-
Utilize Discount Codes	Stack codes and cashback for maximum savings	Dealhack, RetailMeNot, Groupon
-	Check expiry dates and terms before using codes	-
Opt for Non-Refundable Rates	Save up to 20% with confirmed travel plans	Hotel websites, booking platforms
-	Ensure plans are final before choosing non-refundable rates	-
Use Last-Minute Booking Apps	Access steep discounts on unsold inventory	HotelTonight, LastMinute
-	Check after 4 PM for same-day deals	-
Look for All-Inclusive Deals	Combine lodging, meals, and activities for cost efficiency	Expedia, Priceline
-	Confirm what’s included to avoid hidden fees	-
Negotiate Group Discounts	Get discounts for large parties	Direct hotel contact
-	Ask for free parking or breakfast perks	-
Try Alternative Accommodations	Save money with unique stays like Airbnb or VRBO	Airbnb, Hostelworld, VRBO
-	Read reviews and verify amenities before booking	-
Sign Up for Cashback Programs	Earn cashback on hotel bookings	Rakuten, TopCashback, Honey

Conclusion

Saving on hotels doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Following these 13 tips and tricks, you can stretch your budget and enjoy a more luxurious experience. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or planning your first big trip, these hacks will ensure you get the best deals every time.

For even more savings, visit Dealhack and discover the latest hotel discounts and promo codes. Happy travels!

FAQ

What is the best time to book a hotel?

The ideal time is 3-4 weeks before domestic trips and 2-3 months before international trips. Midweek and off-season bookings usually offer lower rates.

Are loyalty programs worth it for infrequent travelers?

Yes! Even occasional travelers can benefit from perks like free Wi-Fi, room upgrades, and points that don’t expire.

How can I ensure I’m getting the best price?

Use price comparison websites, enable price alerts, and contact hotels directly to match or beat listed rates.

Is booking directly with the hotel better than third-party sites?

Booking directly often includes perks like waived fees and complimentary amenities, plus guaranteed best rates.

What are the risks of non-refundable bookings?

Non-refundable bookings are cheaper but come with no flexibility. Ensure plans are 100% confirmed before opting for these rates.

How do credit card rewards help save on hotels?

Rewards can be redeemed for free stays, upgrades, or travel credits. Some cards also offer additional perks like insurance and elite status.

Can I negotiate rates with hotels?

Yes! Call the hotel directly, especially for group bookings, and mention any special occasions to request discounts or upgrades.

Are last-minute booking apps reliable?

Yes, apps like HotelTonight are great for finding unsold rooms at steep discounts, especially for same-day bookings.

What’s the benefit of all-inclusive packages?

All-inclusive deals bundle meals, lodging, and activities, making them cost-effective and convenient for families or groups.

Do cashback programs work for hotel bookings?

Absolutely! Cashback portals like Rakuten provide extra savings by giving you a percentage back on your total booking cost.