Booking a hotel can be tricky, especially when it comes to timing. Wondering if there's a prime moment to secure your reservation? Experts share insights on the ideal days to book your hotel stay.
Many people believe that timing is crucial for landing the best hotel deals, but is that really the case? Understanding when to book can help you secure a great rate for your next trip. Here’s what you need to know about the optimal days for hotel reservations.
Timing Matters
Unlike booking flights, hotel reservations require a different approach. While booking flights is often best done on Mondays or Tuesdays, that strategy doesn’t apply to hotels.
“Avoid making hotel bookings at the start of the week, from Monday to Wednesday. This is when travelers are most active in planning their journeys, leading to higher demand,” advises travel expert Samantha Brown. “Towards the week’s end, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays, hotels may lower their prices to fill unsold rooms, making these days ideal for booking.”
Another distinction between hotels and flights is flexibility. Many hotel chains allow you to reserve without immediate payment, and cancellations are often penalty-free. Just be sure to check the specific cancellation terms before finalizing your booking.
Is There Such a Thing as Booking Too Early?
Wondering about the limits of how far in advance you should book? “Travel advisors often say, ‘reserve early, book late,’” says Brown. It’s perfectly fine to secure a room as soon as your travel plans crystallize, especially if it meets your needs and budget.
However, it’s wise to watch for better deals, which typically emerge within two weeks of your stay. One popular tool for last-minute bookings is Hotel Tonight, which Brown highly recommends.
“I’ve relied on this app numerous times when travel plans shifted unexpectedly,” she shares. “The rates are impressive, especially for quality hotels. I often think of using it for a spontaneous romantic getaway in NYC — maybe one day!”
Understanding Supply and Demand
Keep in mind that guidance on booking doesn’t guarantee savings. “Ultimately, it’s about supply and demand,” explains Colleen Carswell, former hotel sales director. “In many cases, booking last minute can yield better savings.”
Hotels aim to maximize occupancy. “Their goal is clear: fill every room,” Carswell notes. “If rooms remain available as your stay approaches, expect significant price cuts to encourage bookings.”
Conversely, high demand often leads to higher prices. “When hotel occupancy is low, prices drop, but during busy periods, such as holidays or major events, expect to pay more,” Carswell warns. She recommends checking local event calendars to assess potential pricing and crowd levels.
For the best experience and budget management, Carswell suggests the BE-CALM approach: Book Early, Check Again Last Minute.
“When you reserve early, confirm the cancellation policy to avoid any missed opportunities,” she advises. “Then, before the cancellation deadline, see if lower rates have emerged.”
If you find a better deal, you can cancel your original booking and save. If not, congratulations! You’ve made a smart move with your initial reservation.
Book Directly for Best Rates
Booking directly through a hotel often leads to better rates and additional perks, like room upgrades or late check-outs.
“Contact the hotel directly or check online to uncover any special offers for direct bookings,” suggests Claudine Hart, Marketing Director of reStays Ottawa. “If you discover a lower price elsewhere, let us know when booking directly.”
Stay Flexible
While the day of the week may not influence prices significantly, your travel dates can have a considerable impact.
“If possible, adjust your travel dates to take advantage of varying rates,” advises Amaury Piedra, Managing Director at Caribe Royale Orlando Resort. “Keep an eye on value-added packages that might offer great deals.”
With some flexibility, you might secure fantastic room rates during off-peak times.
