As an experienced traveller, you know that booking accommodation is one of the most important parts of trip planning. While there are many sites to choose from, Booking.com has proven itself as a favourite for making stress-free reservations. With its easy-to-use interface, expansive inventory, and generous rewards programme, this platform offers the tools you need to book rooms with confidence. In this guide, we’ll provide insider tips to help you become an expert Booking.com user. You’ll learn how to search efficiently, compare options, use filters to find the perfect match, get the best rates, maximise rewards, and more. Follow our advice to take the frustration out of finding a place to stay. With the right knowledge, you can turn this essential travel task into a breeze. Read on to become a Booking.com pro so you can travel smarter, not harder.
How to Find the Best Deals on Booking.com
Check for coupons and promo codes
Booking.com frequently offers promo codes and coupons for percentage discounts or dollar amounts off hotel bookings. You can find these on the Booking.com website, as well as on third-party coupon sites. Some codes may only apply to certain hotels or room types, so check the details before booking. Using a coupon code is an easy way to save on your next hotel stay.
Be flexible with your dates
Hotel rates can vary significantly based on the day of the week and time of year. If your schedule allows it, try searching a range of dates around your target stay. You may find lower rates for weekdays or off-season travel. Booking in advance, at least 4 to 6 weeks ahead of your trip, also typically yields the best prices.
Compare rates for different room types
Don’t just look at the starting price for a hotel and assume that’s the best deal. Hotels often charge higher rates for certain amenities like ocean views or multi-room suites. Compare rates for standard rooms, ocean-view rooms, or suites to find the option that suits your needs at the lowest price. You may find that a standard room and a suite are similarly priced for your dates, in which case you can get more for your money.
Look for member rates and loyalty programs
Many hotels offer special rates and perks for members of their loyalty program or members of partner organizations. Check if you qualify for member rates based on your employer, alumni group, or other associations. Joining a hotel’s free loyalty program can also unlock lower member rates and earn you perks like free Wi-Fi, room upgrades, and complimentary breakfast.
Negotiate directly for the best price
If you’ve found a great rate on Booking.com but want to see if you can do even better, try contacting the hotel directly. Politely explain that you’ve seen a rate you’re interested in on Booking.com and ask if the hotel would be willing to match or beat that price. Many hotels would rather book directly than pay the commission to Booking.com, so they may be open to negotiating to win your business. It never hurts to ask!
Booking.com Tips and Tricks for Stress-Free Trip Planning
Compare Hotel Rates and Amenities
Booking.com allows you to easily compare hotel rates, locations, and amenities to find the perfect accommodations. You can filter by star rating, price, location, and amenities like parking, Wi-Fi, and breakfast. Compare photos, reviews from other travellers, and hotel ratings to determine the best value. Looking at all the options in one place makes it simple to find a well-rated hotel at the right price point for your budget.
Check Recent Reviews
One of the best ways to determine if a hotel is right for you is by reading reviews from guests who have recently stayed there. Booking.com has many reviews, many with photos, covering everything from cleanliness and service to noise level and quality of the breakfast. Look for reviews from travellers with similar interests to get an honest assessment of what to expect. Reviews also alert you to red flags like construction noise or outdated facilities so you can make an informed choice.
Book Refundable Rates
For extra flexibility and peace of mind, book a refundable rate on Booking.com. Refundable rates allow you to cancel for a full refund up to 24 or 48 hours before check-in, depending on the hotel’s policy. Especially when travelling somewhere new or during busy seasons, refundable rates ensure you have options if your plans change. You may pay slightly higher rates for the flexibility, but the convenience can be worth the extra cost.
Use Mobile Coupons
Save money on your hotel stay using mobile coupons offered through the Booking.com app. Coupons provide 10-15% off select hotels, especially when booking in advance. The coupons are easy to use – simply enter the code provided in the app when booking your hotel on Booking.com. Mobile coupons are an easy way to lower the cost of your trip and make the most of great deals on the go.
FAQs on Using Booking.com: Your Top Questions Answered
How do I find the best deals on Booking.com?
To uncover the best rates on Booking.com, start by selecting your destination and travel dates. Then, filter the results by price to see the most affordable options. Look for properties with the “Great Value!” badge, which indicates it’s priced lower than average. You can also save up to 50% by booking early and selecting the “Pay Now” option.
Can I cancel or change my reservation?
Most reservations on Booking.com are flexible and can be amended or cancelled for free up to a certain date, typically 1 to 2 days before check-in. However, some rates are non-refundable after booking. Always check the rate details and cancellation policy before booking to avoid penalties. If you need to cancel or change an existing reservation with a flexible rate, log in to your account and select “Cancel Booking” or “Change Booking.”
How does the Genius discount work?
Booking.com’s Genius program offers extra perks and discounts to frequent travellers. Once you’ve completed 5 bookings, you’ll automatically become a Genius member. Genius members get an additional 10% off select properties, plus other benefits like free breakfasts, room upgrades, and more. The Genius discount is applied automatically at checkout when you’re signed in to your Booking.com account.
Do I earn rewards or loyalty points for my stay?
Yes, you can earn Booking.com Rewards points for every booking made through Booking.com. Rewards points can be redeemed for free nights, gift cards, and other perks. The number of points you earn depends on the amount you spend. You’ll earn more points by booking higher-rated, more expensive properties. Booking.com Rewards points never expire as long as you make one booking every 2 years.
In summary, Booking.com aims to provide stress-free travel by offering competitive rates, flexible policies, loyalty programs, and additional member benefits. By following the tips in this guide and familiarising yourself with their FAQs, you’ll be able to unlock the best deals and make the most of your experience using Booking.com.
