Sometimes, we have to stay in hotels when we travel. People who don’t research hotels usually choose the wrong ones. Today is the day you learn how to get a great hotel room at a great price. These tips can help you discover the best hotel along with ways to get a better price for it.
Room service can be a great way to have a private, comfortable meal. While you’re likely to pay a little more, it’s worth having the convenience of staying in your room (and in your pajamas) while you wait to satisfy those nocturnal cravings.
To keep your electronics safe when you are out of the hotel room, use the safe that you’ll find in your closet. Anything of value can be securely locked in the safe, then you won’t have to worry about your valuables while out enjoying yourself for the day.
Check the Internet for the best deals before you book a hotel room during your next trip. It’s not uncommon for a hotel employee to not mention to you that it is possible to receive a great discount online. So, it’s up personally to you to go searching for such discounts. There are many travel websites that offer discounts.
Be aware in advance of the check-in time. If you don’t check, the room may not be ready when you arrive. Call and ask if you think you’ll be early.
If you need to have a pet stay with you in your hotel room, do a few things ahead of time. Be sure that the hotel really does allow pets. For easy cleanup, make sure that you have brought along an adequate number of plastic bags. Ask for a corner room so that your pets’ noise doesn’t bother anyone else.
For members of AAA, hotels offer discounts that are exclusive to members. You may not know that your membership to the auto club includes discounts on hotels. It will let you save 5% or so on hotels that are around the nation. Those discounts add up to great savings, especially if you will be having an extended stay.
Bring your running clothes with you on your trip. So, make sure you have your running gear and shoes and you will be set to jog anywhere. Even if you are running down roads or down city streets, you’ll get a new perspective on the city you’re visiting before you’re done.
If you travel frequently, sign up for loyalty programs at your favorite hotels. There are many benefits you may be able to get. Rewards can include free hotel stays, upgrades and late check-out times if you save up enough points.
If you stay in a particular hotel chain, ask about their membership program. Similar to how you earn points from frequent flyer programs, hotels offer you similar rewards for your stay. You might earn free stays and discounts, show tickets, or other things.
Hotel Rooms
One way to get discounts on hotel rooms is to join AAA. AAA members are given many discounts and booking privileges on hotel rooms and rental vehicles. If you have young kids, find out if they have a free car seat service.
Figure out if you want a hotel you can or cannot smoke in. If you are a non-smoker, you may not want to stay in a smoking room. You can still get a room that’s non-smoking, but the smoke can flow in the air and get on all your clothes. In addition, previous travelers could have smoked in the room, even if it is a non-smoking room. If you don’t want to smell like cigarettes, consider staying at a hotel that’s non-smoking.
You should be aware that early hotel check ins are not always possible. Plan accordingly or you will find yourself waiting a long time to access your room. Hotels usually need to get the room cleaned and ready before you check in. You can inquire about checking in early, but do not expect that you’re going to be able to do it.
If you’re going to need special sleeping arrangements at a hotel, such as a roll- away or baby bed, specify this as you make reservations. Not every hotel features these options, and the ones that do only have a few. Certain hotels will even charge a fee for these things. You should discuss this with the hotel agent prior to booking so that you do not have an unexpected charge to your bill.
Do not check out early. The hotel may charge a fee for early departure. When you make your reservation, the hotel can’t offer the room to someone else, so they lose money if you leave early. That’s why they will charge you a fee for early departure.
Understand your rights when it comes to hotels “walking” you. Occasionally a hotel will be overbooked, and the room you reserved will not be available. The hotel will then “walk” you, or direct you to a different hotel. This should only be a last resort and the other accommodations should be just as good or better and your trip there should be paid for as well.
Avoid drinking bottled water from a hotel! After you check-in you may feel tired and thirsty. As a result, that bottle of water on the little fridge may look very good to you. Hotels take advantage of guests by charging ridiculous amounts for bottled water. Sometimes it is possible to get bottled water at no cost in the hotel gym. Better still, pack a few bottles of your own.
So, when it comes time to plan a trip, keep these tips handy. If you don’t know what you’re doing, it could turn out badly. Doing a little research helps ensure that you will have a pleasant stay.