The $400 discount you see advertised is often a starting point, not a guarantee.
Here’s how to get it — or more.
Book during an off-peak time
The hotel pool is empty, and the beach chairs are all yours. Off-peak times mean fewer crowds and deeper discounts.
What to do:
- Search for travel dates in the shoulder season (the period between peak and off-peak).
- Look for promotions specifically targeting off-peak travel.
- Be flexible with your travel dates to take advantage of the lowest prices.
What to skip:
- Booking during holidays or school breaks, when prices are at their highest.
- Assuming that last-minute deals will always be cheaper than planning ahead.
Bundle your flights and hotel
On a Tuesday morning, the travel agent’s office hums with activity. A family of four is planning their summer vacation, and the agent is showing them how bundling flights and hotels can save them hundreds.
What to do:
- Use travel websites that offer package deals combining flights and accommodations.
- Check if the bundle includes extras like rental cars or activities.
- Compare the bundle price to booking each component separately.
What to skip:
- Ignoring the fine print about cancellation policies and fees.
- Assuming that bundling will always be cheaper — sometimes booking separately saves more.
Stay longer to save more
The traveler smiles as they check into their hotel for a week-long stay. They know that by extending their trip, they’ve unlocked a significant discount.
What to do:
- Look for extended stay discounts, which often kick in after a certain number of nights.
- Contact the hotel directly to ask about long-term stay rates.
- Consider booking a vacation rental for stays longer than a week.
What to skip:
- Booking multiple shorter stays instead of one longer stay, which can be more expensive.
- Overlooking the potential for additional costs, like housekeeping fees for extended stays.
Use a rewards credit card
The traveler swipes their rewards credit card and watches as the discount is applied at checkout. They’ve been saving up points for months, and now it’s paying off.
What to do:
- Sign up for a travel rewards credit card that offers points or miles for every dollar spent.
- Use the card for all travel-related expenses to maximize rewards.
- Redeem points for statement credits, upgrades, or free nights.
What to skip:
- Carrying a balance on the card, as high-interest rates can negate the value of rewards.
- Using the card for non-travel expenses if it doesn’t offer good rewards in other categories.
Join a loyalty program
The frequent traveler flashes their loyalty card and is greeted by name. They’ve earned enough points for a free night and an upgrade.
What to do:
- Sign up for loyalty programs with airlines, hotels, and rental car companies.
- Book directly through the provider’s website to earn points.
- Take advantage of member-exclusive promotions and discounts.
What to skip:
- Assuming that loyalty programs are only for frequent travelers — even occasional travelers can benefit.
- Ignoring the terms and conditions of the loyalty program, which can affect how points are earned and redeemed.
Book directly with the hotel
The traveler calls the hotel directly and asks about any unpublished discounts. The front desk agent finds a special rate and applies it to their reservation.
What to do:
- Call the hotel directly to ask about any unpublished discounts or promotions.
- Mention any memberships or affiliations that might qualify you for a discount.
- Check the hotel’s website for exclusive deals not available on third-party booking sites.
What to skip:
- Assuming that third-party booking sites always offer the best rates.
- Overlooking the potential for additional perks, like free breakfast or late check-out, when booking directly.
If your situation is in between
If you’re not traveling during off-peak times but still want to save, consider combining strategies. For example, you could bundle your flights and hotel and use a rewards credit card to maximize your savings.
Where can I learn more about travel deals?
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Can I negotiate a better rate?
Yes, you can often negotiate a better rate by contacting the hotel directly and asking about any available discounts or promotions.
What if I need to cancel my reservation?
Always check the cancellation policy before booking. Some hotels offer free cancellation up to a certain date, while others may charge a fee.
How far in advance should I book?
The best time to book depends on your destination and the time of year. Generally, booking at least a few months in advance can help you secure the best rates.