You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered how to get a good hotel booking during a trip. You can take some steps to make your vacation a lot easier. You can start by looking for a place that matches or undercuts the price you were quoted from an online travel agent. It’s also a good idea to ask for an upgrade or a late check-out.
Get a Late Check-Out
There are a few things to consider if you’re looking to get a late check-out when booking a hotel during a trip. Not all hotels offer this perk. However, if you’re willing to pay a small fee, you can get away with it.
It’s important to have a good reason for wanting a late check-out. For example, you should stay longer on a business trip. Or you might have a sick friend or relative that needs you to stay for a while.
You can even pay the hotel a small amount to extend your check-out time. They might hold your luggage for you if you need help checking out. Alternatively, you can sleep in if they can’t accommodate you on the morning of your departure.
Generally, it’s not difficult to find a hotel that will offer you a free late check-out. However, if your hotel doesn’t have a policy, it’s a good idea to ask, the worst they can say is no. You might also check resources like https://www.retailmenot.com/view/hotels.com for discounts and other offers that may include a late checkout without a fee.
Another way to get a late check-out is to ask the hotel manager. Depending on their discretion, they can grant you a longer stay or give you a special perk, such as a spa treatment or extra dinner hours.
Avoid Getting ‘Walked’ by Hotels
The hotel industry is notorious for walking guests, but there are ways to ensure you will not have to deal with this. It’s best to know your chances before going on a trip.
Hotel walking is not a legal practice. However, many cities prohibit hotels from evicting guests for overstaying their welcome. Hotels may be required to pay a fee to rebook their guests in a comparable hotel or give you a room of equal value.
There are also hotel loyalty programs that can protect you. You can request a guaranteed room if you stay at a specific hotel chain. A hotel manager can then ensure that you can get a room at your hotel of choice.
Having an elite status with a hotel group can also improve your odds. Certain credit cards provide elite status to high spenders. Among other benefits, this status will likely give you a guaranteed room at some of the more prestigious hotels.
Checking into your hotel with a mobile app can also secure you with a digital key. Although this won’t prevent you from being walked, it will give you peace of mind.
The most important way to reduce your chance of being walked is to check into your hotel on time. Most hotels prefer to walk returning guests, not first-time visitors. Similarly, business travelers are more at risk of being walked than families.
Find a Hotel that Undercuts the Price From An OTA
It’s common for people to choose to use a travel agent when planning a vacation. These agents are experts in the destinations they cover and can often provide advice that helps make the trip exceptional. However, using a travel agent can cost money. Some travelers will pay to receive advice and save on the price of their trip.
Another option is to book online. This allows for better access to any airline or accommodation. In addition to saving money, online booking also gives travelers access to reward tickets and travel points. The best part is that they can find the most suitable uses for their points.
Online travel agents also pool offers from different hotels to help consumers find the perfect room. Some of these travel agents include Travelclick and Fastbooking.
You can negotiate a guaranteed rate if you’re looking to book a stay at an independent hotel. Using an online travel agency can save you a lot of time and energy. But there are many factors to consider. Booking online also means that you won’t be subject to transaction fees.
Consider using a local guide. A local guide can be invaluable for helping you make the most of your trip. They can also suggest the best places to see and eat. Also, if you plan on renting a car, a local guide can help you find a car that suits your budget.
Ask for an Upgrade at the Front Desk
If you are planning a vacation and you need to book a hotel, you should inquire about the possibility of upgrading at the front desk. However, you may still need an upgrade on your first attempt. You have to make sure to ask politely and to give some context for your request.
You should also check in early. This will ensure you have the best room. The front desk will have plenty of information about room types and amenities.
Hoteliers often upgrade guests who use extra services. These can include spas, restaurants, and others. Also, guests staying in the same room for several nights may be upgraded.
Remember to let the front desk know about your upcoming occasion. Whether you are celebrating a wedding, honeymoon, divorce, or another major event, your hotel will do its best to give you the special treatment you deserve.
Lastly, be sure to thank the staff for any upgrade you receive. A thank you will go a long way in making your stay special. When requesting an upgrade, you can also mention that you are on a honeymoon, wedding, or celebrating a birthday.
As you can see, asking for an upgrade at the front desk is relatively easy to do. And, even if you don’t get it, you don’t have to feel bad.
