Making hotel reservations is the best way to avoid last-minute hassles. Hotels tend to fill up fast, especially during high-travel seasons. Even cheap, budget hotels are likely to be fully booked. Additionally, on-the-spot accommodation is not guaranteed during busy travel seasons, such as Christmas holidays and peak summer. International sports events also tend to draw crowds, and hotels are not always readily available. Here are some tips to help you get the best hotel deals.

Hotel chains offer rewards programs

Getting points from hotel chains can be a great way to save money while traveling. A new study published by WalletHub ranks the most popular hotel chains’ rewards programs. They analyzed 21 metrics to determine how much travelers can save, including points earned and redeemable at participating hotels. Listed below are the benefits of hotel rewards programs. The more points a traveler accumulates, the higher their tier. Some hotel chains offer multiple tiers, and others have different programs for their frequent customers.

Guesthouses offer a quiet escape

While staying in a hotel can be a hassle, guesthouses provide an alternative to a noisy, crowded environment. Some are located in beautiful areas, making them a great choice for a quiet getaway. While some guesthouses are secluded and have their own parking lots, others are closer to attractions. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, guesthouses provide the ultimate peaceful getaway.

Booking a hotel well in advance

When traveling, booking a hotel well in advance can save you money and hassle. You can plan your trip accordingly when you know that the hotel you want is available when you arrive. You can even make special requests, such as a king-sized bed. By booking your hotel in advance, you can rest easy knowing that your reservation is secure and that you won’t have to worry about running out of room service when you arrive.

Last-minute consolidators

The term “last-minute consolidators” is often applied to firms that purchase group flights and hotels from airlines. These companies buy blocks of seats and resell them to travel agents and consumers at a discounted price. While consolidators offer a lower rate than individual airlines, the cost of the fares is usually not cheaper than the regular published fare. However, consumers should note that the fares are locked in for six to eight weeks, which means that booking them may be a better option than purchasing individual tickets from the airlines.

Hostels are popular with backpackers

Most hostels have a common area for travellers to gather. These areas can range from a communal kitchen and indoor dining area to an outdoor lounge with picnic tables. Many hostels have a rooftop bar and Internet cafe where travelers can check their email and social media. Hostels are also great places to meet other travelers. Many of them have social activities such as games, trivia, and movie nights. You can even go to a movie or hang out at a hostel lounge to get some fresh air and meet new people.