How to Get Cheap Hotels

One thing that troubles most travel lovers is spending an exorbitant amount on hotels. Whether planning a spontaneous weekend getaway or a well-deserved vacation, knowing how to secure cheap hotels can make all the difference. Finding affordable accommodation is paramount for savvy travelers always looking for comfortable hotels without compromising quality and safety. Let’s explore some practical tips and strategies for finding the best deals on hotel rooms. 

Discover smart ways to find cheap hotel deals without sacrificing comfort. From timing your bookings right to using comparison sites and loyalty programs, this guide will help you unlock the best prices and make your stay both affordable and enjoyable. Here’s how to get cheap hotels during your next trip.

Hotel Pricing Strategies and Peak Seasons

One major thing you need to know about hotels is that their pricing isn’t fixed. They fluctuate throughout the year depending on demand, seasonality, and local events. During peak holiday seasons like Christmas and Thanksgiving, you will witness a price hike. You need to understand these patterns to plan a trip when rates are lower.

Dynamic pricing and demand fluctuations 

Hotels always deploy pricing models based on factors like occupancy rates, last-minute bookings, and market demand. Travelers can easily take advantage of hotel rooms during off-seasons and weekdays. Basically, you can book hotel rooms during less busy times of the year. You can also download travel apps to keep an eye on hotel prices. 

Location and hotel amenities impact cost

A hotel’s location and the amenities it offers also significantly impact its pricing. The closer it is to the city and famous travel spots, the pricier the hotel rooms will be. In addition to that, if the hotel has many desirable amenities like pools, gyms, or fancy dining restaurants, it always demands higher rates. If you don’t need such amenities and don’t mind the hotel being far away, you can book hotels away from prime locations to save money substantially. 

Hotel star ratings and value 

If a hotel is highly reviewed and praised on the Internet for its services like cleanliness, safety, and comfort, it will have higher rates than other hotels. Opt for a hotel that has value-for-money and safety reviews instead of those that talk about its luxury. This is a great way to select a hotel that won’t burn a hole in your pocket without sacrificing safety and quality standards. 

Online Booking Platforms for Cheap Hotels 

Since the Internet took over the world, online booking platforms have also evolved. You can look at websites like Booking.com and Agoda to compare the prices of different hotels. The sites also include user reviews, ratings, and photos to help travelers make an informed decision. Also, these websites offer extra discounts and deals you can use while booking from their platform. 

Travel booking aggregators for price comparison 

Travel booking aggregators such as Expedia, Kayak, and Google Hotels help users compare prices across different hotels. These platforms gather data from various hotels, enabling travelers to select the hotel they choose easily. You can filter your search based on cost, dates, and the number of people traveling.

Hotel brand websites and loyalty programs

When you book directly through an official website, you will get exclusive deals, better rates, and extra perks that you won’t get if you book through a third-party app.  You can also use their website to select food options, upgrade your room, and access other amenities the hotel offers. Plus, if you are already a member of that hotel, you will get extra discounts using your loyalty program card. 

Discount hotel websites and apps 

When you scroll through websites and apps like Hotwire and HotelTonight, you will see discounted hotel rates. But these are mostly last-minute booking deals or are only available for a limited time. These platforms are beneficial for those with a flexible schedule who can travel on the days the app gives a discount. 

Bidding tools and travel websites 

There are multiple websites that allow users to negotiate hotel prices. You can offer your price and see if the hotel will accept it. This only happens during the off-season and when the hotels are less busy. 

Read related blog: How to Save Money on Hotels?

Booking Strategies for Scoring Cheap Hotel Deals

If you are an avid traveler but the cost of hotel rooms scares you, here are some helpful tips that will help you get the best deals possible while saving money:

Booking in advance vs last-minute deals

When you book in advance, you often get better deals. This works well during peak season and during popular events. You will also have a wide array of room options when booking in advance, as not many people will do this. On the other hand, last-minute deals are also equally beneficial for those who are flexible travelers. The hotel managers are looking to fill the rooms, and that’s one of the reasons why they offer last-minute deals. However, here 

Non-refundable rates 

If your plan is 100% confirmed, opt for non-refundable rates, as they can provide significant savings. In fact, sometimes, you can save up to 30% of your money by opting for non-refundable prices. You need to select this option only if you are willing to commit upfront and have no intentions of canceling.  

Subscribe to hotel email lists and alerts 

When you like a hotel a lot, you can subscribe to its newsletters and set up alerts that will provide access to exclusive deals, flash sales, and promotional codes. Hotels always prioritize those who have subscribed to their alerts and lists by sending them early notifications on discounts, even before they are advertised globally.

Travel credit cards and hotel rewards 

Apply for travel credit cards if you don’t have one. These credit cards offer hotel rewards, and you can accumulate points for free stays, upgrades, or other perks. You can choose a card that aligns with your travel habits, maximizing your savings over time.  

Alternatively accommodation options 

You can check out alternative options like hostels, vacation rentals, Airbnb, or even boutique hotels. These accommodation places usually offer unique experiences. It’s different from staying at a hotel, and they sometimes lower their costs to attract travelers. If you are traveling in groups, then this is a great way to save more money.

Creative Ways to Find Cheap Hotels

If you are tight on budget, the following approaches provide unique opportunities for travel lovers to find affordable accommodations: 

Bidding on Priceline or “Mystery Hotel” Options

Websites like Priceline allow travelers to bid on hotel rooms or choose mystery deals. Here, the hotel name is revealed only after booking. These platforms always offer significantly lower rates, up to 60% off. However, the only drawback is that you don’t have any control over which hotel you would like to stay in. If you are nit-picky about hotel amenities and the location of the hotel, you can place a bid at Priceline and Mystery Hotels. 

Hotel auctions and flash sales websites 

There are many auction sites and flash sale websites like HotelTonight that offer great discounts on unsold hotel rooms—sometimes up to 70% off. If you are a spontaneous traveler, then keep an eye on hotel auctions and flash sale websites. 

Staying outside major tourist areas 

If you opt for accommodation outside major tourist hubs, you will save some money on hotel bookings. Hotels in these areas will offer competitive rates without sacrificing comfort, especially during peak tourist seasons. However, you might have to travel longer to reach the city’s attraction points, considering the location of the accommodation. 

House-sitting or home exchange services

Websites and services make it easier for travelers by showcasing details about house sitting or home exchanges, where travelers stay in homes for free in exchange for pet care, maintenance, or other responsibilities. One of the classic rom-com movies of all time, The Holiday, is based on a home-swapping story during Christmas. You can also do this without having to pay anything. You have to take care of the house and the pets, if they have any, while letting them stay at your home. 

Volunteer programs with accommodation 

You can try volunteering abroad or locally to get a hotel room at a reduced cost. You can select from a range of programs, such as environmental conservation, marine conservation, or teaching a language you are fluent in. This is perfect for travelers who want to have meaningful experiences while cutting down on their accommodation costs. 

Read related blog: How To Save Money For A Vacation 

Strategies to Reduce Hotel Costs

Implement the strategies below to effectively reduce your hotel expenses while having a great time exploring a new place: 

Shorter stays and multiple destinations

Plan your trip so that your stays are shorter at each location while you explore as many destinations as you can within a single trip. This will help you minimize hotel expenses by decreasing the number of nights you book at each place. If you are an adventurer and enjoy a fast-paced itinerary, you can go ahead with this option.

Travel during the off-season and on weekdays 

Avoid traveling during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Hotels are often cheaper when they are less busy. It’s all about the demand. You can plan a trip during the off-season and enjoy your trip without having to worry about finances.

Pack light and avoid checked baggage fees 

Minimize luggage and avoid checked baggage fees on flights, as this also contributes to your overall savings. Many airline companies charge extra money for checked bags. Therefore, pack light should be reduced, and these additional charges should be reduced. 

Alternate transportation options

Just like there are alternate accommodation options, there are also alternate transportation options. You can compare the prices of buses, trains, and trams and then decide which is best for you. Even when you are going from one tourist spot to another, opt for trains or trams, as taxis and rental cars are expensive. 

Free hotel amenities 

Select hotels that offer complimentary amenities such as breakfast, pool time, and Wi-Fi. These amenities not only enhance your overall experience but also reduce travel costs. You just have to ensure that you stick to your budget and do not make any impulsive purchases.

Safety and Security for Budget Hotels

Safety and security considerations for budget hotels are crucial for travelers looking for cheaper accommodations without compromising their security. Firstly, do a thorough research of the hotel’s neighborhood and find out about the crime rates and other risks associated with that area. You can also enquire with the hotel and ask about their CCTV surveillance and front desk service. Don’t forget to read the reviews before booking the hotel.

The Future of Affordable Hotel Stays

The future of affordable hotel stays is constantly evolving. It’s never static, and it will keep growing. Read along and find out more about it:

Sharing economy accommodation 

The rise of platforms like Airbnb and rental homes has expanded the tourist industry as they offer affordable lodging along with proper safety measures. Look at the profile and other necessary things to know more about the place you will stay.

Subscription-based hotel services

Many hotels are coming up with subscription models where you can pay based on monthly to avoid financial strain. This is extremely budget-friendly and people who are okay with flexible accommodation can opt for it. However, you must ensure you book through a trusted service to avoid any payment dispute problems.  

Price comparison tools

There are many price comparison tools that will help you filter the data you need. You just have to find out if the deals offered by the apps and websites are legit and then make your payment. 

Sustainable travel practices 

Sustainable travel involves selecting accommodation that focuses on environmental responsibility. You can select eco-friendly hotels that recycle waste items and are very green. They should also promote local businesses and respect local customs.

Sharing economy accommodation 

The sharing economy offers diverse and affordable lodging options through platforms like Airbnb and GuestReady. You should review property details, guest reviews, and host profiles carefully before making your decision. 

How to Use Beem to Get Cheap Hotels 

To effectively utilize the Beem app to secure cheap hotels, you can take advantage of Beem’s AI-driven budgeting tips and insights to plan your hotel expenses wisely. The app will help you in analyzing your spending habits and it will also suggest ways you can save money.  

Plus, Beem provides emergency funds ranging from $10 to $1000. This can serve as a safety net for sudden and unexpected hotel expenses or last-minute booking opportunities. With the help of these funds, you get to have financial flexibility without resorting to high-interest options.

Conclusion 

Finding affordable hotel accommodations is all about planning in advance and using the Internet to find the best deals. Plus, if you are flexible with your travel dates, that will come as a bonus when trying to save money on hotel rooms. Ensure you make informed decisions aligning with your preferences and financial goals. 

Read related blog: How to Save Money for Travel

FAQs About How To Get Cheap Hotels