How to Book Cheap Hotels Online in America – Top 10 Insider Tips
Learn how to book cheap hotels online in America with expert tips, strategies, and tools. Save money and find the best deals on your next trip! Top 10 Insider FreeTools.
Article: How to Book Cheap Hotels Online in America
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Hidden websites and tools
- Why Booking Hotels Online is Convenient
- Top Websites for Booking Cheap Hotels
- How to Compare Prices for the Best Deal
- When to Book Hotels to Get the Cheapest Rates
- Tips to Find Hidden Deals and Discounts
- Using Loyalty Programs and Rewards for Savings
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Online
- Conclusion
Introduction
Finding cheap hotels in America can seem overwhelming, especially with so many options online. However, with the right strategies and tools, you can easily book affordable accommodations that suit your needs. Whether you are planning a cross-country road trip, a city getaway, or a beach vacation, this guide will teach you how to book cheap hotels online in America. From using price comparison tools to leveraging loyalty programs, we will explore insider tips to help you save money without sacrificing comfort.
Here are some hidden websites and tools you might not know about for booking cheap hotels online, along with tips for getting the best deals:
1. Roomer Travel
- Website: Roomer Travel
- How it works: Roomer allows travelers to sell their non-refundable hotel reservations if they can’t make the trip. As a result, you can book hotels at significantly discounted rates because you’re taking over someone else’s booking.
- Best for: Last-minute, non-refundable bookings at up to 60% off.
2. HotelTonight
- Website: HotelTonight
- How it works: HotelTonight offers last-minute hotel deals at deep discounts, often for same-day bookings. You can also book a few days in advance, but the best deals come from last-minute bookings.
- Best for: Spontaneous travelers or those looking for cheap same-day deals in major cities.
3. Secret Escapes
- Website: Secret Escapes
- How it works: This members-only travel club offers exclusive deals on luxury hotels and vacations. You can find hidden deals for up to 70% off high-end hotels by signing up for free.
- Best for: Luxury travelers looking for premium accommodations at a fraction of the regular price.
4. SnapTravel
- Website: SnapTravel
- How it works: SnapTravel uses AI to search for hotel deals and delivers them via SMS or Facebook Messenger. You can chat with their system and receive special hidden deals not found on major booking platforms.
- Best for: Travelers who want to use chat-based deals for additional discounts.
5. Priceline Express Deals
- Website: Priceline
- How it works: Priceline’s Express Deals offer steeply discounted hotel prices, but the catch is you don’t know the exact hotel name until after you’ve booked. However, you can see important details like location, rating, and amenities to make an informed decision.
- Best for: Those willing to take a small risk in exchange for big savings on major hotel chains.
6. Bidroom
- Website: Bidroom
- How it works: Bidroom claims to offer hotel rates that are 5-25% cheaper than other booking platforms. It’s a subscription-based service, but the savings you can get on hotels can make it worth the small fee.
- Best for: Frequent travelers who want an alternative to traditional booking sites with ongoing discounts.
7. Yonderbound
- Website: Yonderbound
- How it works: Yonderbound lets you discover affordable hotels by following travel bloggers’ curated “bound books.” You can see their reviews, photos, and recommendations, giving you insight into budget-friendly options.
- Best for: Travelers looking for community-driven hotel recommendations that fit their budget.
8. HotelTiquets
- Website: HotelTiquets
- How it works: Similar to Roomer Travel, HotelTiquets specializes in selling pre-paid, non-refundable hotel bookings that other travelers can no longer use. You can grab these reservations at discounted rates.
- Best for: Travelers with flexible plans who want to scoop up a deal on a pre-booked hotel.
9. Stay22
- Website: Stay22
- How it works: Stay22 helps you find affordable accommodations near popular events like concerts, festivals, or conferences. The tool aggregates prices from different booking platforms to show you the best nearby deals.
- Best for: Event-goers looking for last-minute hotel deals close to venues.
10. TravelPony
- Website: TravelPony
- How it works: TravelPony offers exclusive hotel deals, but you need to sign up and create an account to access them. They often provide up to 40% off rooms by negotiating with hotels directly.
- Best for: Travelers who don’t mind signing up to unlock exclusive deals not available to the public.
11. LastMinuteTravel.com
- Website: LastMinuteTravel
- How it works: LastMinuteTravel.com specializes in providing hidden deals on unsold hotel rooms, much like Hotwire or Priceline’s Express Deals. You can get great prices on rooms that hotels are eager to fill.
- Best for: Travelers who can book at short notice for big discounts.
12. TravelZoo
- Website: TravelZoo
- How it works: TravelZoo curates weekly top 20 travel deals, including hotel offers, that are hand-picked by their team. You’ll find a wide variety of hotel packages, often with significant discounts.
- Best for: Travelers looking for verified deals across the U.S., particularly on more complete travel packages.
Tools for Additional Savings:
- Honey (Browser Extension)
- How it works: Honey automatically applies coupon codes at checkout. While it’s more popular for retail shopping, it also works on travel booking sites to find hidden discount codes for hotels.
- Best for: Travelers who want automatic savings on booking platforms.
- Skyscanner
- How it works: While mainly known for flight bookings, Skyscanner also has a hotel search feature that compares prices across various platforms to help you find the cheapest option.
- Best for: Travelers who want an all-in-one solution for flights, hotels, and car rentals.
- Trivago
- How it works: Trivago compares hotel prices across multiple platforms, showing you the cheapest options. It’s a great way to quickly find out if you’re getting the best deal.
- Best for: Travelers who want to cross-check prices from different booking websites.
- Google Hotel Finder
- How it works: Google’s hotel finder feature allows you to compare hotel prices from various platforms. You can also set price alerts for your preferred hotels and dates.
- Best for: Travelers who rely on Google for quick hotel searches and like to see aggregated results in one place.
- AutoSlash (for Bundles)
- How it works: AutoSlash is mainly a car rental tool, but it can save you money if you’re bundling your hotel with a car rental. It monitors rates after you book and notifies you if a lower price becomes available.
- Best for: Travelers renting cars alongside their hotel stay.
These hidden websites and tools can help you find fantastic hotel deals that are often not widely advertised. By using a combination of price comparison, last-minute booking, and deal-finding platforms, you can save a significant amount on your next hotel stay in America.
Why Booking Hotels Online is Convenient
Booking hotels online is not only convenient but also allows you to compare different options at the click of a button. You can browse through user reviews, see detailed pictures of the rooms, and compare prices across multiple platforms. Websites and apps have streamlined the process, making it easier for travelers to make informed decisions. Here’s why booking online is the go-to option for most travelers:
- Variety of Choices: You can access a wider range of hotels, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels.
- Instant Confirmation: Online booking provides instant confirmation, giving you peace of mind.
- Reviews and Ratings: Websites like TripAdvisor and Google Reviews allow you to read real guest experiences before making a decision.
By booking online, you can take advantage of tools that help you find the best deals, making your trip both affordable and stress-free.
Top Websites for Booking Cheap Hotels
Several online platforms specialize in helping travelers find affordable hotel options in America. Here are some of the most popular websites for booking cheap hotels:
- Booking.com – Known for offering a wide range of accommodations, including budget options, with flexible cancellation policies.
- Expedia – One of the largest travel booking platforms, offering deals on flights, hotels, and vacation packages.
- Priceline – Famous for its “Name Your Own Price” tool and Express Deals, allowing you to save big on last-minute bookings.
- Hotels.com – A go-to for budget-conscious travelers, offering loyalty rewards and discounts on hotel bookings.
- Airbnb – While not a traditional hotel booking site, Airbnb offers a variety of affordable lodging options, including entire homes or budget rooms.
- Hotwire – Specializes in offering unsold hotel rooms at a discounted rate, ideal for spontaneous travelers.
These platforms often feature flash sales, exclusive deals, and filters to help you find the most affordable accommodations in your desired location.
How to Compare Prices for the Best Deal
One of the best ways to ensure you’re getting the cheapest rate is by comparing prices across multiple websites. Price comparison websites and apps can save you time and money. Here’s how to effectively compare prices:
- Use Price Comparison Tools: Websites like Trivago and Google Hotels allow you to compare hotel prices from various platforms in one place.
- Set Price Alerts: Tools like Kayak’s price alert feature notify you when hotel prices drop, helping you book at the right time.
- Check for Coupons and Discounts: Some platforms offer special promo codes or discount vouchers that you can apply during checkout.
Always remember to check the total price, including taxes and fees, as some platforms may hide these costs until the final booking stage.
When to Book Hotels to Get the Cheapest Rates
Timing is everything when it comes to booking hotels. Understanding the best time to book can save you a lot of money. Here are a few strategies:
- Book in Advance: Hotels often offer lower prices for bookings made weeks or months in advance. However, some platforms, like Priceline and Hotwire, also offer last-minute deals.
- Midweek Stays: Booking a stay during the week (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) is typically cheaper than weekends.
- Off-Season Travel: Rates are lower during off-peak seasons. For example, visiting popular destinations like Florida or California in the winter may yield better deals compared to summer.
Planning your trip during non-peak times or using last-minute booking deals can help you secure the best rates.
Tips to Find Hidden Deals and Discounts
Many hotels offer special deals and discounts that aren’t always visible at first glance. Here are some tips to uncover hidden deals:
- Join Mailing Lists: Sign up for hotel newsletters to receive exclusive discounts.
- Use Cashback Websites: Websites like Rakuten or Honey can give you cashback on hotel bookings.
- Search for Promo Codes: A quick Google search for promo codes can often save you 10-20% on your booking.
- Bundle Deals: Websites like Expedia and Booking.com often offer package deals that combine hotels with flights or car rentals for additional savings.
By using these tricks, you can uncover hidden savings and maximize your budget.
Using Loyalty Programs and Rewards for Savings
Loyalty programs can be a great way to save money on hotels. Many hotel chains offer rewards programs where you can earn points with every booking, which can be redeemed for future stays. Here are a few popular hotel loyalty programs:
- Hilton Honors: Earn points for every stay at Hilton properties, which can be redeemed for free nights and upgrades.
- Marriott Bonvoy: Offers a wide range of benefits, including free nights and room upgrades, across Marriott’s global network of hotels.
- IHG Rewards: Provides perks such as free Wi-Fi, late checkout, and exclusive member rates.
Additionally, some credit cards offer rewards points that can be used for hotel stays, allowing you to save even more.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Online
While booking hotels online is convenient, there are a few common mistakes that can cost you money. Here’s what to avoid:
- Not Reading the Fine Print: Always read the cancellation policies and extra fees before confirming your booking.
- Ignoring Reviews: Skipping reviews can lead to unpleasant surprises upon arrival. Always check guest reviews for insight into the quality of the hotel.
- Booking Non-Refundable Rates: If there’s a chance your plans may change, it’s safer to book refundable rates, even if they cost a bit more upfront.
By being mindful of these common pitfalls, you can avoid surprises and ensure a smooth booking experience.
Conclusion
Booking cheap hotels online in America doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right tools, timing, and strategies, you can easily find affordable accommodations that meet your needs. By comparing prices, using loyalty programs, and avoiding common booking mistakes, you can save money and enjoy a comfortable stay on your next trip. Remember, flexibility and research are key to unlocking the best deals, so take your time and make the most of your online booking experience.