The relationship between travel and hotels has been around for centuries, but after World War II, the hotel industry grew at a record pace. The postwar economic boom sent incomes skyrocketing and fueled commercial travel to new heights. The growth of organized labor and the interstate highway system also helped the hotel industry grow. The hotel business soon became an important domestic political battleground. People rely on hotels to connect them to places and activities.
Booking in advance
Booking hotels in advance when traveling is not only a good idea, it is practically a necessity. It is especially important for travelers who need special accommodations or have disabilities. These individuals may not be able to walk around a hotel or travel long distances. These activities can exhaust them and even adversely affect their health.
Cancellation policy
When traveling, it is always important to check the cancellation policy of hotels and travel providers. While some travel providers are flexible when it comes to canceling a reservation, others have strict policies. Cancellation fees at hotels are often different depending on the type of reservation, brand, or reward points.
Alternative accommodations
Alternative accommodations are increasing in popularity and are more affordable than hotels. These types of accommodations are especially popular for long business trips, as they often cost 40 percent less than upscale hotel options. These services are taking market share away from traditional accommodation providers.
Off-season travel
Off-season travel and hotels offer lower prices and fewer crowds. However, you should be aware that hotels often raise their prices during peak travel months, which makes it important to check the cancellation policy before booking. Most hotels will accept cancellations at least 24 hours in advance, but some may ask for more notice. Also, some hotels prioritize flexibility and will allow you to make changes to your booking for free. In some cases, they’ll also give you a credit voucher that you can use within 18 months.
Price comparison websites
Using price comparison websites is a smart way to save money on a hotel room. These sites use data from Revenue Management systems, GDS partners, and Property/Central databases to compile the price ranges for hotels and other properties. You should never manually enter prices for individual properties. Prices fluctuate daily, so it’s best to use a tool that crawls these sites and pulls up the latest prices.