If you are planning to go out of town or country for a vacation, then chances are, you’ll need a hotel to stay in. It is during these times that you have to be wise enough to save up for your trip. In this article, you will find helpful and cheaper alternatives to the overpriced hotel accommodations that could really hurt your wallet. Thrift shopping and food-tripping adventures are just some of the things you can do to maintain a reasonable and steady budget.
1. Travel During Off-season (but not on the extreme)
As most hotels will jack up the rooms’ rates to take advantage of the peak season, be particularly sensitive to events and traditions of the place you’re heading to. For example, because families usually travel when kids are on school vacation (e.g. summertime or Christmas season), go to the beach after summer instead.
Aside from not having to splurge on your hotel suite, for this instance, you can avoid any possibilities of radiation, sunburn and other skin diseases. Opt to enjoy sceneries, take pictures of Mother Nature and spend quality time just having a tumultuous night of splendor with your loved ones.
2. Sign Up for Hotel Membership
Research for hotels which offer promotions that can be used by members in wherever branch they are (locally and internationally). Compare hotel prices and look for compatible ones: near to tourist destinations and convenient for transportation yet not too heavy on the budget.
When you subscribe to a membership with a hotel, you can take pleasure in their standard discounts or other special freebies. That membership usually comes with points which when accrued will gain you more rewards and benefits you can use in your next booking. Moreover, you will get a higher prioritization when you become one of their loyal customers.
3. Hunt For Self-catering Accommodations
If you intend to stay over for more than a week, look for those with fewer hotel type services. Condo units open for leasing or guest houses will also do. (That is if you can live without the luxury services of a standard hotel: concierge, restaurant or bar, wi-fi Internet and other help from the front desk.) In some guest houses, you will have to stay with another group of people as you only occupy a number of rooms in the same house. If you’re not that choosy, and if you’re willing to share the public toilet with others, then considering this option will definitely chop off your hotel bill.
4. Purchase Coupons in Online Deal Sites or Newspapers
Trending now are companies offering deals for vacations and getaways. Check out their websites and join their subscription mail list to get notified of cheaper hotel bookings. Of course, you need to plan ahead and make sure that your itinerary will go smoothly when you choose to stay in those hotels.
Some deals require a minimum number of people going so ensure that you read along these lines first or call the vendor before confirmation. Traveling in groups may also get you a cheaper price; get some coordination with your friends or colleagues and together work on achieving that cheapest hotel package.
5. Bargain and Negotiate
Work on the phone and inquire about the rates of the hotel rooms of your first choice. Speak with the guest relations officer or the friendly manager and ask if they can offer special prices for first-time guests. Ask if you can have a cheaper one if you won’t need food vouchers and other accommodations such as the use of the gym, spa, swimming pool, television, and other hotel amenities.
Say nice things about their hotel and praise them for the good impression they bring forward. Explain why you choose their hotel while traveling within budget and if the hotel representatives do not give in, tell them you’ll call back later after checking for other options. Keep looking until someone gives you a good rate.
As you can see, there are many different ways to save money on your hotel accommodation. So, put these tips into effect and increase the weight of your piggy bank.
