Can You Negotiate for a Hotel Stay? Tips for negotiating rates at a hotel
Whether you’re organizing a week-long conference or a two-day business retreat, booking accommodations is a big piece of the planning puzzle.
You may be nervous about getting a hotel room for your special event, but finding a good deal doesn’t have to take hours of searching or frustrating negotiations. It’s about knowing what you want, what questions to ask, and what to look for in a contract.
Can You Negotiate for a Hotel Room? How? Exclusive Tips — https://globalhotelfinder.com/can-you-negotiate-for-a-hotel-room/
Tips for negotiating rates at a hotel
Investigation
Research is an essential component of any negotiation; This is especially true when it comes to negotiating the best room rate. Before speaking to a hotel reservationist or receptionist, arm yourself with the right information.
Find out room rates for your travel dates on the hotel’s website and at least two other travel sites. Research the times of the week and seasons of the year that may offer the best price. Find out what discounts may apply. Everything from your AAA membership to the company you work for and even a few credit cards in your wallet can qualify you for a big discount.
Find out the prices of similar properties in the area to help calculate a fair price. Study the default reservation dates to know the optimal number of days in advance to reserve the room. Talk to friends, family, and colleagues in the travel industry and use their discounts or your knowledge of unknown discounts.
Do not be afraid
Do not be shy. Ask for the best price. At the end of the phone call, use these exact words: “Is this the best rate available?” There is no need to lose money for fear of looking cheap.
Most guests will simply accept the price offered; It is not necessary to offer greater discounts to a traveler willing to pay the first price offered, but asking for a cheaper price will often result in a cheaper price. Simply saying “That’s too expensive” can get the receptionist to shave up to $20 off the price, depending on the circumstances.
For the especially brave, canceling your reservation and letting the hotel know the price is too high can result in an instant discount. As with any strong negotiating position, you have to be willing to give it up.
Timing Matters
Booking is a good way to get lower prices, but often, last-minute bookings can also be a way to get a good discount as there are many empty rooms.
Stay During Off-Peak Times: Prices are often cheaper during low demand or midweek as compared to weekends and holidays.
Contact the Hotel Directly
Call the Hotel: It is also important to note that when you call the hotel directly, you can sometimes negotiate for better prices than when you are booking online.
Email the Hotel: If calling is not possible, then emailing is also a good choice. Speak politely and say that you would love to stay at the hotel but the rates are higher than in other hotels.
Be Flexible and Polite
Be Flexible with Dates: It is also important to note that even a one or two-day change in your dates of stay can translate to significant differences in rates.
Ask for Upgrades: If the hotel cannot offer a lower room rate, inquire if they can provide an upgrade, free breakfast, or other benefits.
Stay Polite and Friendly: It is also important to be polite as this can go a long way. Hotel staff are more receptive to your needs if you are polite and if you understand their situation.
Use Memberships and Rewards
Loyalty Programs: Join the hotel’s loyalty program. Members often get lower rates, free upgrades, or other benefits.
Credit Card Perks: Some credit cards offer special rates or benefits at certain hotel chains.
Leverage Online Reviews and Social Media
Mention Online Reviews: Politely mention if you have seen mixed reviews online and are looking for a reason to choose their hotel despite the competition.
Social Media Engagement: Engage with the hotel on social media platforms. Sometimes, hotels appreciate the attention and may offer a discount as a goodwill gesture.
Consider Package Deals
Bundle Offers: Look for package deals that include flights, car rentals, or activities along with your hotel stay. These can sometimes offer significant savings.
Negotiate Upon Arrival
Ask at Check-In: If you are unable to get a better rate before booking, try to bargain when you get there. If the hotel is not fully booked, they may give a discount to cover the room.
Use Apps and Websites
Discount Apps: For instance, there is an app called HotelTonight that offers great deals for same-day bookings.
Price Drop Alerts: Bookmark travel websites and check them regularly for any changes in the rates.
Request for a Longer Stay Discount
Extended Stays: If you are planning to spend several days there, check if they have a special offer for long-term guests.
For any more queries or details visit the site globalhotelfinder.com.
