Before you check into your next hotel, here are 5 secrets that could help you save money, stress and time:
1. Don’t bother trying to get a discount by calling the hotel’s main number
The main hotel number is a call center where agents have little — if any — discretion to offer any price drops. Instead, call the hotel directly. You’ll likely be surprised at how fast and easy it is to get a deep discount without having to stay longer. At the very least, you might get some extras like late checkout or an upgraded room.
2.Always request clean linens when you check-in, and give the remote a good scrub
The good news is that hotels wash and change the sheets daily. The bad news, though, is that they typically wash blankets once a week, and bedspreads don’t get a good scrub more than once a month. And speaking of cleanliness: while it may look new and pristine, studies have revealed that the filthiest item in a hotel room is typically the TV remote control, because housekeeping staff often neglect to clean it. And as for the carpet, it’s almost never going to get a deep cleaning unless there’s a stain — so wearing socks, sandals, slippers or shoes at all times is a good idea!
3. If you use a third-party booking site, then there’s a greater chance you’ll get bumped
When airlines overbook passengers, the first people to get bumped are those who paid the least. Similarly, when hotels overbook — or if a celebrity or politician swoops in and wants a room — then guests who booked through third-party sites are usually the first to get the old heave-ho. Is this fair? No. Does it happen? Yup.
4.Don’t necessarily accept the concierge’s recommendations
Hotel concierges know all about the property and surrounding area, and can be useful sources of information for where to eat, what to see, what to do, and so on. However, keep in mind that some concierges get a kickback (or some other incentive) from these vendors. So, while this doesn’t mean that you should reject all of their suggestions as biased, it does mean that you should be a little skeptical. Often, talking to the front desk staff can lead to a more unbiased and useful recommendation — or sometimes, a warning.
5. Don’t make any long distance calls
Hotels make a ridiculous amount of money from guests who make long distance calls. Instead buy a calling card (just make sure you read the fine print), or if your workplace has a VoIP phone system from a leading provider like Votacall, you can install an app on your smartphone and make or receive calls using a WiFi or mobile data connection.
The Bottom Line
Hopefully, these 5 secrets will help you save money, time and stress the next time you stay in a hotel. Happy travels!