Hotel booking mistakes to avoid

While booking a hotel seems quite straightforward and entails only picking a destination, travel dates, and a payment method, there are a number of blunders one can commit in the process. And these mistakes could prove costly and easily ruin one’s long-planned trip. 

Image source: Pixabay.com

Here are things to avoid doing when making hotel reservations. 

Expecting the best and everything you requested Typically, those booking through the hotel website, along with loyalty members, get first dibs on room assignments, including better views and quieter locations. Most booking engines also allow guests to make requests or comments regarding their stay, but this doesn’t mean such requests are guaranteed. If this is the case, politely speak to the front-desk agent to request your desired change. 

Not accounting for taxes and resort fees There are fees that hotel guests could dodge if they don’t wish to avail themselves of certain services, such as housekeeping or newspaper delivery. But note that there are mandatory ones such as resort fees, so one needs to account for the added cost when booking a hotel room. 

Booking non-refundable rates Non-refundable rates are cheaper that the regular rates for a reason: the hotelier benefits from the lower price when a room is locked in. If you ever find yourself needing to cancel the hotel reservation due to bad weather, illness, or a personal reason, it’s inevitable to forgo the non-refundable rate. The fix: pay the heftier yet refundable rate instead for when you need to put the trip on hold. 

Other hotel booking faux pas Common booking mistakes include failing to check the exact location and surrounding establishments; skipping the user review sites; inquire if there’s available airport shuttle, internet access, or breakfast (and if they are complimentary); and sign up for a loyalty program that rewards frequent stays.

Image source: Pixabay.com 

John Jefferis is a highly-respected hotelier who establishes a myriad of activities and amenities in all of his hotels to ensure the comfort and enjoyment of his guests. For more on the hospitality business, like this Facebook page.