Heads-up: some links on this site may be affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we recommend. Read our affiliate disclosure.
Hotels may charge when you book, but there are ways to avoid extra fees. Some hotels charge for services like Wi-Fi, breakfast, or cancellation. Read on for practical tips to save you money.
Quick answer
When booking a hotel room, it's essential to be aware of potential charges that can add up quickly. To avoid surprise fees, follow these top tactics:
- Book directly with the hotel to avoid third-party booking fees.
- Use a hotel price comparison website to find the best deals and avoid extra charges.
- Check for package deals and discounts that include extras like breakfast or parking.
Be mindful of credit card fees
- Some credit cards charge foreign transaction fees for international bookings.
Check for hidden charges
- Always review the hotel's booking policy and check for any additional fees or charges.
Negotiate and cancel wisely
- Be aware of cancellation policies and any associated fees.
- Don't be afraid to negotiate with the hotel directly if you're unsure about charges or fees.
Book Directly with the Hotel
Booking directly with the hotel can be a cost-effective way to avoid various fees and services charges.
What are the potential savings?
When you book directly with the hotel, you're less likely to encounter additional fees, such as booking fees or credit card charges. These fees can add up quickly, especially if you're booking multiple rooms or services.
How to book directly with a hotel
To book directly with a hotel, visit their official website or contact their central reservation office. You can also check their website for a phone number or email address to make a reservation.
- Consider booking a package deal that includes extras like breakfast, parking, or Wi-Fi, which can sometimes be cheaper than booking each service separately.
- Look for hotels that offer loyalty programs or membership schemes, which can provide exclusive discounts and benefits.
- Check the hotel's website for any special offers or promotions that might be available when you book directly. For more practical tips on saving money when you travel, see 10 Ways to Save Money When You Travel.
Use a Hotel Price Comparison Website
Hotel price comparison websites can be a valuable resource in finding the best deals and avoiding extra charges. These websites aggregate prices from various booking sites, allowing you to compare prices and find the best option for your needs.
How it works
You input your travel dates and destination into the website, and it searches for available hotels and rates. The website then displays the prices from multiple booking sites, allowing you to compare and contrast the options.
Benefits
- You can compare prices from multiple booking sites in one place, saving you time and effort.
- Hotel price comparison websites often offer price alerts, notifying you when prices drop or when a better deal becomes available.
- Some websites also provide additional features, such as hotel reviews and ratings, to help you make an informed decision.
Choosing the right website
When selecting a hotel price comparison website, look for one that aggregates prices from a wide range of booking sites and offers a user-friendly interface. Some popular options include Trivago and Expedia, but there are many other websites available.
Check for Package Deals and Discounts
Booking a package that includes flights, car rentals, and hotel stays can be a cost-effective way to save money. By bundling services, you may be able to reduce booking charges and enjoy discounts. This is because hotels often offer special deals to attract customers who book multiple services with them.
Bundle and Save
When booking a package, you can often avoid additional booking fees that hotels charge for individual services. For example, booking a flight and hotel together might save you up to 10% compared to booking each separately.
Look for Discounts and Promotions
Hotels may offer special discounts or promotions when you book a package deal. These can include loyalty program points, free upgrades, or other perks. Check the hotel's website or contact their customer service to see what deals are available.
- Consider booking a package that includes extras like breakfast or airport transfers to maximize your savings.
- Be aware that some package deals may have restrictions or blackout dates, so be sure to read the fine print.
- If you're traveling with a family, check if the hotel offers any special family packages or discounts.
- Always check the hotel's website, such as the one mentioned in 5 Things Parents Should Avoid When Choosing a Holiday Hotel, for any package deals or discounts before booking.
- Some credit card companies also offer travel insurance or other perks when booking packages, so it's worth checking your benefits before making a booking.
Be Aware of Credit Card Fees
Credit Card Fees Can Add Up
When booking a hotel room, it's essential to be aware of credit card fees that can add to your overall cost. These fees can vary depending on your card issuer and the hotel's payment policies. Some credit cards charge foreign transaction fees, which can range from 1-3% of the transaction amount.
Avoiding Credit Card Fees
To avoid or minimize credit card fees when booking a hotel room, consider the following:
- Use a credit card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees, such as a cashback or rewards card.
- Check with your hotel to see if they accept alternative payment methods, like bank transfers or checks.
- If your credit card charges a foreign transaction fee, consider using a prepaid currency card or a debit card instead.
- Be aware of any additional fees associated with your credit card, such as late payment fees or balance transfer fees.
- If you're booking a hotel room in a foreign country, consider using a credit card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees to avoid extra charges.
Mistakes that Cost You Money
Avoid Common Pitfalls
When booking a hotel room, it's easy to overlook certain details that can lead to extra charges. Be mindful of these common mistakes:
- Not reading the fine print: Take the time to review the terms and conditions before paying for your reservation.
- Failing to cancel or modify: Ensure you understand the hotel's cancellation policy and any potential fees associated with changes to your booking.
Additional Tips
- Don't assume all hotels have the same policies. Research the specific hotel's rules and regulations to avoid surprises.
- 7 Things to Consider When Booking a Family Vacation
- Be aware of any additional fees or charges, such as early check-in or late check-out fees.
Remember, taking the time to carefully review your booking details can save you money and stress in the long run.
Checklist Before You Pay
Review Your Booking Details
Double-check your booking details, including the hotel name, dates, room type, and number of guests. Ensure you've selected the correct room category and any additional services, such as breakfast or parking.
Cancellation Policies
Understand the hotel's cancellation policy, including any fees or penalties for changing or cancelling your booking. Check if you can cancel or modify your booking without incurring a fee.
Payment Methods
Verify the payment method you've chosen and any associated fees. Some hotels may charge extra for credit card payments or other payment options.
- Check the hotel's policies on:
- Pre-authorisation and pre-payment
- Currency exchange rates (if you're using a non-local currency)
- Payment deadlines
- Any additional fees for services like Wi-Fi or parking
Frequently asked questions
Do hotels charge for Wi-Fi?
Some hotels charge for Wi-Fi, but many offer it for free. Check the hotel's policy when booking to avoid surprise fees. Consider booking hotels that offer free Wi-Fi as part of their standard services.
Can I avoid booking fees when booking a hotel?
Yes, booking directly with the hotel can help you avoid third-party booking fees. Use a hotel price comparison website to find the best deals and avoid extra charges. Check the hotel's website for package deals and discounts.
What are some common hotel charges to watch out for?
Be aware of charges for services like breakfast, parking, and cancellation. Review the hotel's booking policy and check for any additional fees or charges before making a reservation.
Can I negotiate hotel charges or fees?
Yes, don't be afraid to negotiate with the hotel directly if you're unsure about charges or fees. Be aware of cancellation policies and associated fees before making a reservation.
Do credit cards charge fees for hotel bookings?
Some credit cards charge foreign transaction fees for international bookings. Check your credit card terms to understand any potential fees associated with hotel bookings.
How can I save money when booking a hotel?
Book directly with the hotel, use a hotel price comparison website, and consider package deals that include extras like breakfast or parking. Review the hotel's booking policy to avoid surprise fees.
