The costs of traveling and hotels are rising, due to a combination of increasing supply and labor costs, and growing consumer demand. Last month, hotel rates increased by 11.7 percent and travel prices jumped 8.5 percent. The trend suggests that consumers are willing to pay more for a higher quality experience. Thankfully, there are ways to make traveling more affordable.
Before booking a hotel or flight, make sure you know the cancellation policy. Some hotels will allow you to change your reservation without penalty, while others will charge you a fee. It’s best to check the cancellation policy before you make a reservation so you can determine what options you have if something unexpected happens.
Many travelers find the lowest rates by calling travel suppliers directly. By calling specific properties, travelers have the opportunity to negotiate a better rate and ask about specials. It’s also advantageous to make reservations early. Booking early allows you to compare prices for different hotels, and it allows you to research your destination in advance.
Hotels come in all shapes and sizes, and they offer a wide range of amenities. Some are designed for business travelers, while others cater to families. Many large hotel chains now have all-suite options. Alternatively, budget travelers may choose to stay in cottages or hostels. A number of budget hotels offer shared baths and are also known as “no frills” hotels.