· Maria Lang · Travel · 4 min read
How to Save Money on Hotel Bookings from the UK
Booking a hotel for a holiday, business trip, or weekend getaway can be one of the most expensive parts of travel. However, with the right strategies, you can significantly reduce your costs while still enjoying comfortable accommodation. Whether you're planning a trip within the UK or abroad, this guide will help you save money on hotel bookings.
1. Compare Prices Across Multiple Platforms
Prices for the same hotel can vary significantly between booking websites. To find the best deal, always compare rates across multiple platforms.
Money-Saving Tips:
- Use comparison websites like Booking.com, Trivago, Hotels.com, and Expedia to check for the best price.
- Cross-check the hotel’s official website—some hotels offer exclusive direct booking discounts.
- Use Google Hotels to compare prices from different platforms quickly.
2. Book in Advance or at the Last Minute
Timing is crucial when it comes to securing the best hotel deals.
Best Booking Strategies:
- For peak season: Book several months in advance to secure early-bird discounts.
- For off-peak stays: Consider booking last-minute deals, as hotels reduce prices to fill empty rooms.
- Use apps like HotelTonight for spontaneous last-minute discounts.
3. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
Hotel prices fluctuate depending on demand. Being flexible with your travel dates can help you find lower prices.
Flexibility Tips:
- Avoid peak travel seasons such as school holidays, bank holidays, and major events.
- Midweek stays (Tuesday-Thursday) are often cheaper than weekends.
- Use fare alert tools on hotel booking websites to track price drops.
4. Use Cashback and Reward Programs
Many hotel booking sites and credit cards offer cashback or reward points that can help you save money.
How to Maximise Rewards:
- Join hotel loyalty programs such as Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, or IHG Rewards.
- Use cashback websites like TopCashback or Quidco to earn money back on your bookings.
- Pay with a travel rewards credit card to accumulate points for future discounts.
5. Consider Alternative Accommodation
Hotels aren’t the only option when travelling. Alternative accommodations can be significantly cheaper and offer unique experiences.
Cheaper Alternatives:
- Airbnb – Great for budget-friendly stays, especially for families or longer trips.
- Hostels – Not just for backpackers; many offer private rooms at lower rates than hotels.
- Guesthouses & B&Bs – Often provide better value, including free breakfast.
- Home swaps or house sitting – Websites like Love Home Swap can provide free stays in exchange for looking after a home.
6. Book Refundable Rates and Recheck Prices
Prices can drop after you book, so securing a refundable rate allows you to cancel and rebook at a lower price.
Tips for Flexible Booking:
- Choose hotels with free cancellation policies.
- Use Rebooking tools like Pruvo or Skyscanner’s price alerts to track price drops.
- If prices drop, cancel your original booking and rebook at the lower rate.
7. Take Advantage of Hotel Discounts
Many groups and affiliations offer exclusive hotel discounts that can help you save money.
Discount Sources:
- AAA or RAC membership discounts.
- Student, NHS, or Armed Forces discounts via websites like Blue Light Card.
- Corporate or employer discounts if your company has partnerships with hotels.
- Senior citizen discounts offered by some chains.
8. Choose Hotels with Free Perks
Some hotels offer free amenities that can save you money during your stay.
Perks to Look For:
- Free breakfast – Saves money on meals.
- Complimentary airport transfers – Reduces taxi or shuttle costs.
- Free Wi-Fi – Avoids extra charges for internet access.
- Free parking – Saves on expensive city parking fees.
9. Negotiate Directly with the Hotel
Hotels may offer better deals if you contact them directly rather than booking through third-party websites.
How to Negotiate:
- Call or email the hotel and ask if they can beat online prices.
- Request free upgrades or discounts for longer stays.
- Mention if you’re celebrating a special occasion—some hotels offer perks.
10. Avoid Hidden Fees and Additional Costs
Some hotels have hidden fees that can increase your total bill. Always check the final price before booking.
Fees to Watch Out For:
- Resort fees – Some hotels charge extra for pool and gym access.
- City taxes – Some destinations impose a local tax on hotel stays.
- Mini-bar charges – Avoid using overpriced in-room snacks and drinks.
- Early check-in or late check-out fees – Check the hotel’s policies to avoid extra charges.
Conclusion
Saving money on hotel bookings from the UK is possible with a mix of smart planning, comparison shopping, and leveraging discounts. Whether you’re booking months in advance, using cashback websites, or choosing budget-friendly alternatives, these strategies will help you get the best deal on your stay.
