Howdy!
As we all probably are, im looking to go to the Gold Coast with a few mates over the summer, however I am a bit of a rookie when it comes to finding a savvy discount/solution for a nice hotel.
Is there any tips I should know when looking to book one for my trip? :)
Savvy Tips on Hotel Booking
LOzSavvy on 23/11/2020 - 14:03
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Comments
Start by using a comparison site like HotelsCombined.
Then check directly with the hotel.
If the hotel is a chain sign up to their membership for free benefits.
Read the hotel reviews on TripAdvisor.
Plan the cost and time reaching the hotel from the airport.
Consider room cooking facilities versus eating every meal out.
Think about how far the hotel is from where you will spend most of your time, if there’s extra costs and time involved.
If there’s a few of you look at 2 or 3 bed apartments, Airbnb or holiday parks.
Search this site for coupon and referral codes on hotel booking sites.
Look for free cancellation bookings especially if you’re travelling interstate.Hotels.com and many others have free cancellation for most bookings. I tend to book something a long way off then search again closer to the date and rebook if something better comes up. Most don't charge you until you actually arrive so it's pretty risk free.
I've never had good experiences booking directly with hotels. Often their prices are much worse and they refuse to negotiate with online prices - I am perplexed why.
Also I tend to use the map search feature a lot. Location is the most important thing for a hotel IMO.
in times of COVID focus on free cancellations
just not worth it these days
had Melbourne booked during easter, was lucky i booked through the hotel, was bale to get refund even though i fully paid
if i had used an aggregator site, i would have lost it allCheck LastMinute out - they also have 10% off when you sign up to their email list (select hotels only) and 10% off for students.
StudentBeans has some discounted booking sites, not many though.
Also, keep an eye out on Cashrewards and ShopBack as they may have increased cashback on select travel websites.
Are those discounts for lastminute able to be combined?
Understand the type of accommodation you're mates are expecting and the price point they want to pay and work from there.
For a time limited vacation it's all about location - no point in getting cheap accom in the middle of nowhere or not even close to where you want to be. you'll spend money / time having to travel.
If you want to go even further… look at amenities - do you want to pay for a gym / pool that you wont use? Do you want to cook rather than eat out.
be wary of cash back sites (cash rewards at least) sometimes affiliate links increase the price of accomodation.
Ask them is there a discount if you had corona
Hotels are always a little shabbier than they appear in their photos. So aim for a room or hotel that is slightly nicer than you think you need, because it will still meet your low expectations when you see it in person.