Accommodation, dining, and transportation top the list of travel expenses. With rising gas prices and inflation, here are effective ways to cut hotel costs.
1. Book Directly with Hotels
When you book directly with a hotel, you bypass intermediaries and their fees. Many hotels reward loyalty points exclusively for direct bookings, maximizing your savings. Utilize sites like Kayak or Google Hotels to find the best rates, then book directly. If your travel dates are firm, consider opting for their cheaper non-refundable rates.
2. Utilize Reward Points
Check your credit card reward points for free or discounted stays. Many cards allow partial payment with points and cash, helping to lessen your accommodation expenses.
3. Stay Flexible with Dates
Flexibility in your travel dates can lead to significant savings. Many platforms allow you to search for the best rates across a month. On a recent trip to Marfa, Texas, shifting my travel schedule saved me a lot due to increased availability.
4. Travel During Shoulder Season
Summer is bustling, but consider traveling in the fall for lower prices and less crowding. Spring and fall often present the best deals. I found a fantastic deal at a charming bed and breakfast in Ocracoke, NC, by booking during the early spring before prices rose.
Alfred the gnome relishes hotel visits.
5. Take Advantage of Discounts
AAA and AARP members can enjoy roughly 10% off various accommodations. Ensure someone in your group utilizes these memberships. If you frequently use Booking.com, aim for their Genius pricing for select properties. Additionally, use cashback sites like Rakuten when booking to earn rewards directly into your PayPal account.
6. Watch for Hidden Fees
Many booking sites don't include taxes and cleaning fees in their initial displayed prices, making them seem more affordable than they are. For instance, on my recent Puerto Rico trip, I discovered unexpected fees adding almost 20% to the total cost. Booking directly often provides clearer pricing and may include amenities like breakfast, further cutting costs.
7. Last-Minute Bookings
Last-minute deals can be a goldmine. Use apps like HotelTonight or Hotwire.com for discounted rates on unsold rooms, though you may not know the hotel's name until after booking.
Budget-Friendly Alternative: Camping
In late April, I booked a safari tent at El Cosmico in Marfa, a unique luxury campground with various accommodations. My tent rental was just $69 a night, significantly cheaper than nearby hotels which exceeded $200. Typical tent campsites across the U.S. are often under $35. I enjoy camping and always check campground reviews for quality. Last fall, I stayed at two well-rated campgrounds while visiting Mono Lake. Sometimes, sleeping in a car is more comfortable than you'd think, especially when it saves money! I borrow tents from friends for my trips, making camping a budget-friendly travel option.
While Airbnbs used to be cheaper, they now often match hotel rates, especially in urban areas. However, Airbnbs usually come with kitchens, which can help lower meal expenses. Always compare prices before making a reservation to ensure you're getting the best deal, or consider campground options!
