How I Find the Best Hotel Deals (My Proven 7-Step System)
- 8 de ago. de 2023
- 12 min de leitura
Atualizado: 12 de ago.
Want to book an amazing hotel without overpaying—or worse, ending up in a tiny room next to a shipping yard? I’ve been there.
After years of planning trips across Europe, the U.S., and beyond, I’ve figured out exactly where—and how—to book hotels that fit my travel style and my budget.
From last-minute city stays to boutique countryside gems, I’ve tested Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, and more to see which platforms deliver the best value.
This guide shares the simple tips, trusted tools, and booking sites I personally use to save money (and avoid bad surprises) when booking hotels.
Let’s get you from “overwhelmed” to “booked”—without extra fees, stress, or guesswork.
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Booking.com vs. Hotels.com vs. Expedia (and Hotel Chains): Quick Comparison Guide
Before we dive into my full booking strategy, here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of the platforms I actually use—and when.
Whether you're looking for rewards, flexibility, or just the best deal, this will help you choose the right tool from the start.
Best for: Hotel research, filters, and variety
Loyalty program: Genius (up to 20% off, lifetime levels based on number of stays)
Pay later? Sometimes — but I’ve had my card charged even when I chose "Pay at Hotel"
Mobile app: Great filters, excellent map view, helpful for shortlisting hotels
When I use it: I mostly use it to search and compare options, but I book elsewhere unless the deal is clearly better
🟣 Hotels.com (My Current Favorite)
Best for: Great prices, reliable checkout, and flexible booking policies
Loyalty program: One Key Rewards (earn 2–6% back as OneKeyCash, valid on Expedia, Vrbo & Hotels.com)
Mobile perks: App-only deals often 5–10% cheaper than desktop
Pay later? Yes — and in my experience, they respect it more reliably than Booking.com
When I use it: This is my go-to platform right now. It’s clear, consistent, and offers great value
🟢 Expedia
Best for: Booking full trip packages — flights, hotels, and car rentals in one go
Loyalty program: Also uses One Key Rewards
Perks: Often offers big savings when you bundle your trip
When I use it: For U.S. trips or when I’m booking multiple parts of a trip at once
🏨 Major Hotel Chains (Marriott, Hilton, Radisson…)
Best for: Loyalty perks, upgrades, and elite treatment
Loyalty programs: Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, Radisson Rewards
Direct booking only: You must book directly to earn points or enjoy benefits
When I use it: When staying with brands I trust — booking direct unlocks upgrades, free breakfast, late check-out, and more
✅ Final Tip:
Once I’ve found the right hotel, I compare prices across all of these platforms — but these days, I book most trips through Hotels.com for the rewards and reliability.For research, I still lean on Booking.com. For bundles, Expedia. And for perks? I always check if booking direct is worth it.
The Booking Mistake that Cost me Money and Peace of Mind
Once, we booked a hotel that sounded amazing in reviews—“prime location,” “modern design,” “great value.”
Reality? It was next to a shipping container port, the room was barely fit a suitcase, and the pool was a bathtub full of screaming kids.
Lesson: Don’t just trust the star rating—read between the lines.
I wish I’d known then what I know now. That experience taught me that booking the right hotel isn't about luck; it's about having a system. Here is the exact 7-step process I now use to avoid disasters and find incredible places to stay
My 7-Step System for Booking the Perfect Hotel
This is my foolproof process for every trip—from city weekends to countryside escapes.
Choosing the right hotel can make or break your trip. A little planning goes a long way—both for your comfort and your wallet. Here’s how I approach every hotel booking to avoid surprises and get the most value.
Step 1: Define your Budget & Travel Style
Before you even open a search tab, know what you're looking for.
Budget: Set a clear nightly limit — it instantly filters out distractions.
Travel Style: What’s the goal of this trip?
Relaxing getaway → Look for pools, spas, and quiet surroundings
Urban exploring → Central location, comfy bed, maybe breakfast included
Work + travel → Fast Wi-Fi, a proper desk, and good lighting are non-negotiable
🎯 Knowing your goals helps you avoid paying for amenities you won’t use.
Step 2. Master the Map: the "Vibe Check"
A “good location” is subjective. I never book without doing a quick Google Maps vibe check.
Search “best neighborhoods for tourists in [city]” to get the lay of the land
Drop a pin on the hotel and use Street View to virtually walk around
Check for nearby essentials: Are there restaurants, a metro station, a grocery store?
Ask yourself: Is the vibe charming old town… or noisy highway? That can be the difference between a dreamy night and zero sleep.
📍 This 5-minute trick is the best way to understand the real location.
Step 3. Read Reviews Like a Detective
Star ratings don’t tell the whole story. Reviews do—if you know how to read them.
How I read smart:
🆕 A hotel can change fast. I only care about feedback from the last 6-12 months.
🚩 Look for patterns: One bad review? Maybe a fluke. Three about mold or noise? Walk away.
❌ Always filter for “Terrible” on TripAdvisor to see worst-case scenarios. It reveals the hotel's true weaknesses.
🧼 My workflow:
Start with reviews on Booking.com or Hotels.com
Cross-check Google Maps for candid photos and reviews
Filter for “Terrible” on TripAdvisor to reveal hidden deal-breakers
If I spot a pattern of poor cleanliness, I move on—no matter how great the price.
Step 4: Scrutinize the Fine Print for Hidden Costs
This is where a great deal can fall apart. Before you get excited about a price, verify the total cost.
Check what’s included vs. extra:
Is breakfast included?
Is Wi-Fi free?
How much is parking? (In some cities, €25–€40 per night isn’t rare)
⚠️ Beware of “destination fees” and “resort fees,” especially in the U.S. These can add $30–$50 per night—and are often hidden until the last step.
Step 5: Choose the Right Booking Platform
Once I’ve shortlisted hotels, it’s time to pick where to book. Not all sites are created equal. I quickly evaluate them based on:
Price transparency → Does the site show the total price (with taxes and fees) upfront, or does it use drip pricing to trick me? If I have to click to the final screen to see the real cost, I leave.
Loyalty benefits:
Hotels.com (One Key Rewards): Best for Variety. Earn 2% back (up to 6% at higher tiers) on eligible bookings. Rewards apply across Expedia and VRBO too.
Booking.com – Genius Program: free to join and has 3 lifetime levels, based on how often you book with discounts from 10% to 20% off.
Marriott/Radisson: Earn points + elite perks like upgrades or free breakfast
Expedia: Great for flight + hotel bundles
Mobile app experience → If the app is buggy or confusing, I won’t trust it with my trip
📱I need to access bookings offline and message support quickly. A bad app = bad service.
💡 Note: Hotels.com used to offer 1 free night after 10. With the new One Key Rewards system (launched in 2023), travelers report earning as little as $6 back for a $300 stay. The rewards apply across Hotels.com, Expedia, and VRBO — not just Hotels.com.
Step 6: Always Do a Final Price Check
Never book on the first site you see. Once I’ve chosen my hotel and preferred booking platform, I do a quick 2-minute check to make sure I’m actually getting the best price
My quick price-check routine:
Compare price on my favorite site (e.g., Hotels.com)
Check the hotel’s official website — sometimes they offer direct-booking perks or extra discounts
I run a quick search on Google Hotels or Tripadvisor, which compare prices across multiple platforms in one place
I check the Booking.com or Hotels.com app, since mobile-only discounts are often 5–10% cheaper
💡 Tripadvisor is especially handy because it shows rates from Booking, Expedia, Agoda, and more — right alongside reviews and photos. Just double-check for taxes or fees once you click through.
This quick routine has saved me hundreds over time — especially on longer stays or in popular destinations.
Step 7. : Book with Flexibility
Life happens. Booking flexible rates means you can change plans without paying penalties.
✅ Filter for free cancellation up to a few days before check-in.
✅ Prefer pay-at-hotel options if plans might change
🧘 This gives me peace of mind and the ability to change my plans without losing money.
✨ Once I’ve followed this system, I head straight to my favorite platforms—Booking.com, Hotels.com, or Marriott—to lock in the best deal, with confidence. You'll avoid the traps, find the hidden gems, and get the best possible value for your money.
Now, I'd love to hear from you: What's your #1 hotel booking tip or your favorite site to use? Share it in the comments below.
My Go-To Booking Toolkit: The Right Tool for the Right Trip
I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all booking site. I use a toolkit—and I choose the best platform based on the trip. Whether I’m booking a boutique hotel, bundling a flight, or using elite perks, here’s exactly when and why I use each one.
My Current Favorite for Price & Flexibility: Hotels.com
When I use it: Most of my bookings now go through Hotels.com—especially for boutique hotels or non-chain stays.
Why I switched: I’ve consistently found better prices here than on Booking.com lately. Plus, their new One Key rewards program (which is shared across Expedia and Vrbo) gives me cashback as "OneKeyCash" I can use on future bookings.
Earn 2% or more back on eligible bookings.
It’s a single, shared loyalty program across multiple major platforms.
The mobile app is great and often has exclusive discounts.
💡 Hotels.com has become my go-to—great prices, a simple rewards system, and a checkout process I trust.
My Go-To for Research (But I Book with Caution): Booking.com
When I use it: I still use it for almost every hotel search. But when it comes to the final click, I've become very selective.
Why I'm cautious: I’ve had multiple cases where my card was charged upfront, even on "Pay at Hotel" bookings. For me, that flexibility is key, so this has become a major point of friction. I now prefer platforms that I trust to honor the "pay later" option correctly.
That said, it’s still a powerful tool for:
Initial Research: Its excellent filters and map view are often the best for creating a shortlist of potential hotels.
Review Vetting: Its massive database of verified guest reviews is invaluable for checking hotel quality.
Building a shortlist of hotel options.
💡 My Rule of Thumb: My default workflow is to research on Booking.com and then book on Hotels.com or directly with the hotel. However, I always do a final price check. If Booking.com is significantly cheaper—enough to justify the risk—I’ll book there.
Best for Package Deals: Expedia
When I use it: When I need to book flights, hotels, and car rentals in one go.
Why it helps:
Flight + hotel bundles are often cheaper than booking separately (especially in the U.S.)
Hotels for all styles and budgets, from economy to luxury
Part of the One Key loyalty program, so I earn rewards on bundles too
💡 I always compare bundle vs. separate bookings—it only takes a minute and can save a lot.
My Pro Move for VIP Perks: Booking Direct
When I use it: When I’m staying with a major hotel chain like Marriott, Accor, Hyatt, or Radisson.
Why it’s worth it:
Booking direct is the only way to earn elite status points and get the best treatment.
Unlocks upgrades, free breakfast, early check-in, and late check-out
Hotel brands like Marriott (with its huge Bonvoy program) offer member-only rates that beat OTAs.
💡 If you stay with a chain just a few times per year, booking direct is the fastest way to level up your hotel experience.
Final Tip:
No matter where I book, I always do a final price check across sites—and on the hotel’s mobile app—to make sure I’m getting the absolute best deal.
If you’re also renting a car, check out my guide to renting cars without hidden fees. Looking for the best guided tours? Read our GetYourGuide honest Review. |
Beyond the Basics: Pro-Level Hacks to Save Even More
Once you’ve mastered my 7-step system, you’re already ahead of 90% of travelers. But if you want to unlock truly exceptional hotel deals, here are a few extra tricks I use when every dollar counts.
These aren’t everyday tips—they’re the pro-level hacks that stretch your budget even further.
Hack #1: Let Technology Track Hotel Prices for You
What it is: Stop checking prices manually. Set up automated alerts that notify you the moment a hotel's rate drops.
How to do it:
Why it works: These tools catch temporary dips, flash sales, or last-minute changes—without you lifting a finger.
Hack #2: Find the Best Price Online, Then Call the Hotel
What it is: After you find the lowest rate online, contact the hotel directly. Yes—actually pick up the phone.
How to do it:
Be polite and Try a simple script like this:
“Hi, I found your Queen Room on Booking.com for $150. Could you offer a better rate or any perks if I book directly?”
Pro Tip: If they can't lower the price, ask, "Is there any other incentive you can offer for booking direct, like free breakfast or a room upgrade?"
Why it works: Hotels often pay 15–25% in commission to third-party platforms.They are often happy to pass some of that savings on to you to secure a direct booking. I’ve scored:
Room upgrades
Free breakfast
Welcome drinks
Waived parking fees
Hack #3: Use Points & Miles Like a Travel Hacker
What it is: Use credit card points or hotel loyalty rewards to pay (or partially pay) for hotel stays.
How to do it:
Earn points through programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards, Amex Membership Rewards, or Citi ThankYou Points
Transfer those to hotel partners like Hyatt, Hilton Honors, or Marriott Bonvoy
Book stays entirely with points or mix points + cash
💳 Example: A welcome bonus from a card like Chase Sapphire Preferred can often cover 2–3 free nights at a 4-star Hyatt.
Why it works: This is how frequent travelers reduce hotel costs to zero. It requires a small learning curve, but the payoff is huge.
Looking for more travel tools? Check out my Travel Resources page where I share trusted platforms I use for flights, eSIMs, ticket booking, and more. |
FAQ: Your Hotel Booking Questions Answered
Is it better to book directly with the hotel or through a platform like Booking.com?
It depends. Booking sites are great for comparing prices and filtering options quickly. But if you're staying at a hotel chain (like Marriott or Hilton), booking direct often unlocks perks like free breakfast or room upgrades. I usually compare both before booking.
What’s the safest way to book hotels online?
Stick with trusted platforms (Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia) or book directly through the hotel’s official website. Avoid unfamiliar sites unless you’ve verified their reputation. And always read reviews!
When is the best time to book a hotel for the lowest price?
About 1–2 months in advance for cities, and 3–4 months for popular destinations or peak seasons. Last-minute deals can happen—but are a gamble. Set up price alerts if your dates are flexible.
Do hotel prices really drop in incognito mode?
Sometimes. While it’s not as effective as it used to be, using incognito mode or clearing your cookies can occasionally show lower prices. It doesn’t hurt to try!
Are “Pay Later” hotel bookings truly risk-free?
Not always. Some sites (like Booking.com) may still pre-authorize or even charge your card early, despite selecting “Pay at Hotel.” That’s why I now prefer Hotels.com—it’s been more consistent with honoring flexible payment options.
What if I find a cheaper rate after I’ve booked?
Some platforms offer price-match guarantees. Booking.com and Hotels.com used to, but these change often—always check the terms. Otherwise, it’s worth calling the hotel and politely asking if they’ll match it or throw in a perk.
A Few More Things I Always Double-Check
Even with a good system in place, there are a few final details I always keep in mind before clicking “book”:
Watch the cancellation deadline: Just because a booking says “free cancellation” doesn’t mean it’s flexible forever. There’s usually a cut-off date—and missing it could cost you. I always make a mental note (or set a reminder) for the last day to cancel.
Shift your dates if you can: A one-day difference can mean a $100 swing—especially around holidays or events. If my dates aren’t set in stone, I run a flexible search just to see what shows up.
Trust matters more than a $5 saving: I’ve learned that sometimes it’s worth spending a little extra to book through a platform I trust—especially when I know they’ll honor “pay later” or won’t leave me hanging if something goes wrong.
Let’s Swap Hotel Stories
Ever scored a killer hotel deal—or booked something that turned out to be a total disaster? Drop your best (or worst!) hotel story in the comments. Your experience might just save someone else from a bad night’s sleep—or help them discover a hidden gem!