How to get the best hotel rates for your family vacation

Getting the Best Hotel Rates for Your Family Vacation

It’s always fun to travel with the family, but it can be quite pricey, too. Being smart when you book can help you make the most out of your travel budget. Learn how to get the best hotel rates for your family vacation with these 10 tips, and start your trip off on a happy note.

Know your options

Make a list of hotels and alternative lodging options like B&B’s and lodges in the area you are visiting. Check on the city’s website, or popular travel sites and blogs like TripAdvisor to learn more. Ask your friends and relatives about their experiences and where they were able to get good deals.

Compare prices online

Louise Fandiño of MommyPracticality.com shares, "Remember to compare prices of hotels. You could get great deals if you're patient enough to do your research.”

Once you have narrowed down your hotel options, get the room rates from their respective websites. Compare these with the rates on booking sites like Agoda, Travelocity or Expedia to find out if you can score a better deal there.

Look for daily deals

Some of the best hotel deals can be found on sites like Groupon, DealGrocer, and Ensogo. Just make sure that you read all of the coupon details carefully. Often, these special bookings are only valid for travel on specified dates and cannot be used on holidays.

Book direct

Contacting the hotel directly may actually get you a great deal. When you book direct, you can ask for additional discounts or in-house promos. They may even be able to offer you room only deals. You’ll be surprised at how much can be slashed from the total rate when you remove things like breakfast, transportation, and internet service.

Book and pay ahead

Choosing to book and pay in advance is another way to get the best possible price on a hotel booking. Exercise due diligence and double check that your payment has been credited. This helps you avoid headaches when your travel date arrives.

Be flexible with your trip dates

Everything costs more during peak season, most especially accommodation rates. Choosing to visit a particular country or city during lean season will guarantee savings for you, as compared to visiting at its busiest time. If you aren’t after a particular festival or local celebration, it would be wise to plan your trip on off-peak dates.

Find out about discounts that you are entitled to

Chances are, the company that you work for will have a list of establishments with whom they have a corporate rate or special discount. The same goes for your credit card provider, and clubs or organizations that you might be a part of. Make the most out of these discounts!

Choose rooms wisely

Most hotels allow kids to stay for free when sharing a room and bed with their parents. Kids also get free or discounted breakfasts at these establishments. Don't forget to check on the maximum considered age for children at the hotel of your choice, as this varies depending on the establishment.

Book a travel package

Pick an all-inclusive travel package to cover your transportation, accommodations and activities. With the right deal, booking may come out cheaper as compared to securing each individually.

Sign up for the loyalty program of your favorite hotel

If you are a frequent visitor of a particular chain of hotels, consider signing up for their membership or loyalty program. It may seem like quite an investment, but the entitlements are worth it with frequent use. Typical inclusions are special discounts on booking rates, F&B and other services, birthday treats for members, and even a complimentary overnight stay.

How to Get the Best Hotel Rates for Your Family Vacation

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Patricia de Castro-Cuyugan

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Written by

Patricia de Castro-Cuyugan

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