Unveiling the Secret to Saving on Your Next Motel Stay
Have you ever wondered if it's always cheaper to book accommodations online through major travel websites such as Booking.com or Expedia?
You might be surprised by the answer: it's not.
In today's digital age, numerous industries are shifting from traditional brick-and-mortar stores to online platforms. Leveraging the internet's global reach and reducing costs related to rent and staffing, many businesses find it advantageous to lower their service costs and product prices, promoting their online outlets. Consequently, they tend to make up for the difference through higher sales volumes and lower overheads.
However, the accommodation industry deviates from this pattern, primarily because of the role played by Online Travel Agents (OTAs). These OTAs invest heavily in advertisements and marketing, making them appear as the go-to platforms for online bookings. Yet, in reality, motel owners often incur hefty commission fees for every booking made through an OTA. Consequently, with a significant margin lost to these agents, motel owners have little incentive to offer discounted prices for OTA-based online reservations.
Let's unveil the secret to securing your ideal room at the best possible price:
OTAs, including Booking.com and Trivago, are excellent resources for reviews and photo collections. Start your search for the perfect motel by utilizing their search engines, ensuring you select accommodation with a good review rating to guarantee a satisfactory stay.
Once you've identified your preferred motel and chosen your dates, simply copy the motel's name and look it up on Google. What you're after is the official motel website and their direct contact details.
Then, give the motel a call. Let them know you've found their listing on an OTA platform, and politely inquire whether they can offer a discount if you book directly with them. You might be pleasantly surprised to find that you could save between 2% to 8% on your stay! Why? Because motel owners are generally pleased to offer a discount while increasing their profit by bypassing the OTA middleman.
Direct booking also offers additional advantages such as the option to request specific preferences like "Could I have the quietest room at the end of the hall, please?" Moreover, should your travel plans change, dealing with amendments is often simpler and quicker when coordinated directly with the motel staff.
Thanks for taking the time to read this post. We hope these insider tips help you make the most of your hard-earned money on your next travel adventure!