In the hotel business, loyalty still has its rewards: free Wi-Fi, loaner BMW bikes, and spa discounts are among the perks you receive for joining Fairmont's free Presidents Club program.
That's just one of the tips and tricks we've compiled that will improve your next hotel stay—and before you even arrive. Some are easy adjustments to your travel habits like bringing your own bottled water or checking in later in the day when managers have a better sense of their inventory and will be more open to a spontaneous upgrade.
Other hotel strategies involve taking advantage of tools that do the research for you. Hipmunk's new last-minute deal aggregator compiles rock-bottom prices for unsold rooms up to 72 hours ahead of arrival. And online service Tingo will automatically rebook you at a lower price if your room rate drops.
Now that's the peace of mind that sets you well on your way to a good hotel night's sleep.
Consult the Algorithm
New website TheSuitest has a Hotel Time Machine that predicts the average room rate in a destination six months out, making it easy to see when rooms will be at their most affordable.
Track the Hotel Rate
Book with online service Tingo, which will automatically rebook you at the lower price if your room rate drops.
Bundle your Room with Air Fare
Hotels drop rates when they can disguise them in travel packages offered by websites such as Expedia, Travelocity, and Orbitz.
Pick a Card
If you want to stockpile airline miles and hotel points, finding the right travel-rewards credit card is key. Compare your options on the websites Nerdwallet and Cardhub. Both offer comprehensive card comparisons and sound advice on maximizing benefits.
Take a Calculated Hotel Gamble
Turns out HotelTonight, the pioneer of same-day mobile bookings, partners with select hotels in each destination so it can guarantee availability. Check the app leading up to your trip to get a sense of what will be on offer in your destination. Then be quick on the draw the day of: deals go up at noon each day.
Look for Unsold Rooms
Don’t want to cut it too close? Hipmunk’s new last-minute deal aggregator compiles rock-bottom prices for unsold rooms up to 72 hours ahead of arrival.
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