Is it cheaper to book directly with hotel or with website?

Cut Out the Middleman: Why Booking Your Hotel Directly Can Save You Money

In the digital age, the convenience of booking travel through online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, Booking.com, and Hotels.com is undeniable. With a few clicks, you can compare prices and accommodations across numerous properties. However, are you truly getting the best deal by relying on these platforms? The answer, surprisingly, is often no. Booking directly with the hotel itself is frequently the most cost-effective route, and here’s why.

While OTAs streamline the booking process, they function as intermediaries, and intermediaries invariably add costs. This markup can come in various forms, from commissions charged to the hotel to hidden fees tacked onto the final price you see. These extra charges can significantly inflate the overall cost of your stay, potentially negating the perceived convenience of using an OTA.

One of the biggest advantages of booking directly with a hotel is the elimination of these intermediary fees. When you book directly, you are essentially cutting out the middleman. The hotel doesn’t have to pay a commission to the OTA, which often translates to a lower room rate for you. Hotels are often incentivized to offer lower prices directly to encourage you to book with them, building brand loyalty and avoiding commission fees.

Furthermore, hotels often have loyalty programs and exclusive direct-booking benefits that are unavailable through OTAs. These perks can include free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, room upgrades (subject to availability), and even early check-in or late check-out. Over the course of your stay, these added extras can represent significant savings and enhance your overall experience.

Beyond the financial benefits, booking directly also offers a more personalized and reliable experience. When you book directly, you have a direct line of communication with the hotel. This is particularly crucial if you have specific requests or need to make changes to your reservation. Dealing directly with the hotel staff ensures that your needs are properly addressed and that your request doesn’t get lost in translation through a third-party.

Of course, OTAs do have their place. They can be valuable for comparing prices across a broad range of hotels, especially in unfamiliar destinations. They can also be useful for last-minute bookings or when you are looking for a specific type of accommodation that may not be readily available through the hotel’s website.

However, before clicking “book” on an OTA, take a moment to visit the hotel’s official website or call them directly. You might be surprised to find a lower price or even a package deal that includes extras you wouldn’t get through the OTA.

In conclusion, while online travel agencies offer convenience and a wide selection of options, booking directly with the hotel often yields the best price and a more personalized experience. By cutting out the middleman, you can eliminate hidden fees, access exclusive benefits, and enjoy a more direct line of communication with the property, ultimately saving you money and ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable stay. So, the next time you’re planning a trip, remember to check the hotel’s website – it might just save you a considerable amount of cash.

#Bookingtips #Hoteldeals #Travelhacks