Booking hotel accommodations is an essential part of any vacation. We love a luxury travel experience that doesn’t break the bank, so of course, we have to share our hotel tips with you! Did you know that you can get a hotel upgrade? Most of the time, the only thing you have to do is ask!
Here’s what you need to know about getting a hotel room upgrade:
Hotel receptionists are the plug
Being friendly goes a long way in the hospitality industry. The same goes for travelers being pleasant to staff. Make friends with the hotel receptionist and you’ll have a chance at upgrading your hotel room. Most of the time, hotel receptionists use their discretion when upgrading travelers. An upgrade also occurs if a better room becomes available at the time of your arrival.
When arriving, you ask questions like “May I have a room on a higher floor” or “May I request a corner room?” Suites and premium rooms are located on the higher floors and corner rooms are usually the largest.
Check-in on a Sunday night
According to Hotels.com, the cheapest night to stay in a city hotel is Sunday night. Most travelers have left the destination after their weekend stay and hotels often discount their rooms on Sunday nights. Another cheap time to book is the first two weeks of January.
Sign up for loyalty programs
If there’s a hotel you love, sign up for their loyalty program. Chain hotels reward their loyalty members with upgrades, discounts, and more. Signing up is free and can save you so much money in the log run.
Have a late check-in
Hotel receptionists usually know what’s available later on in the day. Early evening is the best time. Most people have checked in for the day and staff will know which rooms are still available.
Stay in newly opened hotels
Oftentimes, new hotels have something to prove. They want to build up their roster of guests. These hotels will most likely be underbooked and have rooms available for an upgrade.
At the end of the day, being nice and friendly goes a long way. Remember to ask, because closed mouths don’t get fed!
