5 Common Hotel Booking Errors and How to Avoid Them

Airlines served over 1 billion passengers in 2019, an increase from the year prior.

Looking to join the masses and take a trip soon? Before you do, make sure you aren’t making any common hotel booking errors.

Traveling for business or for pleasure can be a stressful experience. Before you can rest easy and really focus on enjoying your trip, you want to make sure you’ve done all that you can to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.

Are you worried that you’ve overlooked something? Keep reading to learn how to avoid the five common hotel booking errors.

1. Not Checking Online Customer Reviews

One mistake is booking a room without first reading the reviews. 

Reading reviews will give you insight into other people’s hotel experiences. Although everyone has different expectations and standards, reviews can help you determine what is good or bad about a hotel and help you choose the best one for you.

Sites such as Booking.com and TripAdvisor provide millions of verified reviews for properties listed on their websites. You can also search consumer review sites like Yelp and TripAdvisor for specifics, such as pet-friendly ratings.

2. Not Booking Directly Through the Hotel’s Site

In comparing hotel prices, most assume that hotel websites posts higher rates. 

Sometimes third-party sites provide the best deals. It’s sometimes much better to book directly if the actual hotel’s website rates are just the same.

When it comes to room assignments, guests who book through the hotel’s website are almost always prioritized, so if you want a great view or a higher floor, you’ll have a better chance.

For example, if you are traveling to Death Valley, CA this summer, book directly to the actual website and mobile apps of Death Valley hotels and experience the best travel deals yourself.

3. Ignoring the Fine Print

Not reading through the fine print may hit you with unexpected bills.
Keep an eye out for any extra charges that aren’t included in the room rate. Some hotels charge a daily resort fee besides sales and occupancy taxes.

These mandatory fees can cover anything from amenities use to Internet access.

Notice the cancellation policy. According to a head of business development at Trivago, many travelers opt to book nonrefundable units. They believe that rates are typically lower. It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to get your money back if you have to change your travel plans.

4. Forgetting to Check for Discounts

Many discount booking websites claim to have the lowest prices. If you know which hotel you want to stay at, check to see if there are any special offers. If the hotel advertises a low price guarantee, you can find a lower rate by comparing different sites online.

In 2016 it was forecasted that more than 51 percent of Americans who book digitally will do bookings using a smartphone. As a result of this projected trend, hotels provided perks and discounts to customers who use their mobile apps.

Looking for a promo code on websites is an even easier way to score a deal. When you search for specific hotel brands or properties online, you’ll get results from a variety of sources.

5. Not Doing a Follow up With the Hotel

Hotels and third-party websites allow you to leave detailed information for each property. This information can include special requests such as extra towels, a rollaway bed for a child, or requesting a quiet room away from the elevator.

While a hotel will typically honor the requests made, you can’t always assume the staff will see that information prior to check-in. It’s a good idea to call the hotel directly after booking to ensure your needs will be met.

When booking a hotel room through a third-party site, make sure you get in touch with the hotel.

Avoid These Common Hotel Booking Errors

If you’re looking to avoid any common hotel booking errors, be sure to keep these tips in mind. You’ll have a stress-free and enjoyable stay at your hotel.

For that reason, we encourage people to read more of our informative blog posts. We will publish a new article when we have the time and resources to create them.