When you are going on a family vacation, making a hotel reservation is an important part of the planning process. However, it is all too easy to end up choosing a shabby hotel that overcharges you. Use the following tips to make sure that you choose a great hotel at a good rate.
Use sensible safety and security precautions when you stay at a hotel. Find out where all the fire exits are in case of an emergency. Also, note where the nearby fire extinguishers are located. If you have any valuables, keep them in the safe at the desk or in the room.
When going on a trip, it is a good idea to book a vacation package instead of booking each service separately. While it may seem like you are spending a lot more money at once, the reality is that you will be getting a cheaper hotel stay than you would otherwise.
When searching for a hotel, consider “bundle” packages. For example, if you have to fly to your location, look for a bundle that includes both your hotel room and your airfare. You should save quite a bit of money that way, but make sure to always double-check the regular room rate to ensure you are getting a good deal.
It can be hard to know how to select good hotels. Joining a travel club can be a very smart choice if you do a lot of traveling. Your travel club will provide you with hotel guide materials. Representatives can answer your questions, help you choose hotels and even help you plan and book your reservations.
If you are an AAA member, check into your membership hotel discount. Are you aware that the auto club you belong to may offer you excellent hotel discounts? You can save 5 percent or more on your hotel stay just by showing your membership card. This really adds up when you are staying for many nights.
Make location a top priority when it comes to searching for hotels. If you are going to be staying in a city and want to sight-see, it may not be wise to stay in a hotel 30 minutes away from all the action. Ask the hotel about attractions close by or look up their location on the Internet.
Call the hotel you are planning to stay in and see if they offer any discounts. Many hotels offer discounts for senior citizens, business travelers, military personnel and government officials. Additionally, if you are a member of an automobile association, you may qualify for a reduced rate on your hotel stay.
Going green is a growing trend so it is no surprise that hotels are going green as well. There are many hotels that feature green amenities. Many new hotels are certified as green hotels. Many older hotels will still be environmentally aware by utilizing some eco-friendly practices. Finding hotels that are environmentally friendly can be as easy as asking your favorite travel agent.
The cost of your hotel will vary depending on when you make your reservation. Rooms are typically priced according to availability. If you can, make your room reservations only a day in advance. This will net you the best price when it comes to hotel rooms. Empty rooms don’t earn the hotel money, so they’re happy to cut the price and reserve a room.
Nothing can ruin a family vacation more quickly than a stay in a dirty, grimy hotel. You want your family to remember the good times about the trip, not the disgusting hotel room that you had to stay in. Remember the advice you have read here to make the right hotel reservation.