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Get More Bang for Your Buck By Booking During the Off-Season
No one wants to spend more than necessary on lodging while traveling. After all, the experience of dining out, shopping, events, and excursions are where the memories will lie long after your trip is over. But you have to sleep somewhere, so finding the best hotel deals will stretch your vacation budget and give you the peace of mind that comes from finding a great deal. The Best Western Siesta Key wants you to fully enjoy your stay with us, and that includes the price. So we’re offering some insider information to help you make the best choices when you plan your next vacation to Siesta Key.
Why Does Booking Out of Season Mean Better Deals?
Choosing to travel and stay in hotels during the off-season, or between seasons, is a smart way to save money and get more for less. Learn enough about the area you’re visiting to discover what trends will jack up prices and avoid those times if possible. For example, travel to large cities or exotic locations tends to be higher during holidays (think Hawaii for Christmas). Travel, in general, is lowest in January and early February, as most people have just returned from taking time off work and school during holiday breaks. So hotels in big cities are at their least expensive during these months. Here in Florida, September and October are ideal. Families are finished with summer travel and back in school, while our northern “snowbirds” haven’t started migrating south for warmer weather just yet. The beaches are still warm, the water very swimmable, but crowds have died down enough to make for a fantastic vacation.
When Should I Book My Hotel for Better Deals?
If you’re a planner and want to get your accommodations nailed down well in advance, you may find yourself paying far more than necessary. Booking more than two or three months ahead will be costly when rooms are available and hotels can charge the going rate. Within a month of your travel date, rates will start to drop as rooms that are still vacant need to be reserved. Most experts will say that booking your hotel near the end of the week, on a Friday or Saturday, is the best time to make a selection. Travelers are already checking in, not making their selections (which are typically done on Mondays). However, the very cheapest day of the week to book domestic hotel rooms is Sunday afternoon. Weekenders are checking out and business travelers won’t be arriving until Monday at the earliest for their workweek. If you can swing a Sunday night getaway, you’ll save big on lodging.
How Far In Advance Should I Book for Better Deals?
While the booking protocol for airlines tends to be counter-intuitive (prices tend to go up last-minute), hotels definitely operate on a supply and demand basis. They want to fill rooms, even at a discount. So waiting until the last 24-48 hours to book your room is a great plan…if you’re willing to take the risk of not finding anything. Most hotels require a cancellation fee if the reservation is canceled within 24-48 hours, so guests will often cancel just before this cutoff to avoid extra fees. That being said, it’s important to watch for large events in the area that might attract enough people that hotels could be booked solid. Being flexible and willing to explore several options is the best way to find a last-minute deal on a room.
Spending a little time and effort in researching the best deals, times, and days to book your next hotel stay can save you lots of money during your actual trip. Following the advice we’ve offered is a great way to begin your research. Keep these pro-tips in mind as you book, knowing you’re getting the best deals possible. For more help finding the best ways to save on lodging, talk to the experts at The Best Western Siesta Key. We know you’ll love what you find with us, and your loyalty is our priority.