How to get luxury hotels for cheap? Answer is – Finding great deals on luxury hotels requires some insider knowledge and strategic planning. Here’s how to score lavish accommodations without breaking the bank: consider shoulder seasons, book at the last minute, use hotel booking sites and loyalty programs, look for package deals, negotiate directly with the hotel, and don’t underestimate the power of asking for an upgrade.

How to get luxury hotels for cheap?

What is a luxury hotel?

The term “luxury hotel” evokes images of lavish amenities, impeccable service, and an ambiance of exclusivity. While there’s no single, universally-agreed-upon definition, luxury hotels generally share these characteristics:

High-end accommodations: Spacious rooms, plush furnishings, opulent design, and thoughtful touches like premium linens and bath products.

Exceptional service: Attentive staff who go above and beyond, anticipating guest needs and providing personalized experiences.

Desirable locations: Whether situated in bustling city centers, nestled in scenic landscapes, or offering prime beachfront access, location is part of the allure.

Superb amenities: Offerings might include world-class spas, renowned restaurants, infinity pools, state-of-the-art fitness centers, and more.

Beyond these commonalities, luxury hotels distinguish themselves by catering to individual preferences and creating a sense of unparalleled indulgence.

Why do people want to stay in luxury hotels?

The draw of a luxury hotel extends far beyond the material comforts:

Escape and pampering: Luxury hotels offer a sanctuary from the everyday, a chance to be pampered and truly unwind.

Elevated experiences: From gourmet dining to curated activities, these hotels are designed to provide exceptional, and often unique, experiences.

Status and prestige: For some, staying in a luxury hotel is a symbol of success or a way to indulge in a taste of the finer things in life.

Creating memories: Special occasions, like honeymoons, anniversaries, or milestone celebrations, often call for accommodations that are as special as the event itself.

The allure of the luxury hotel experience

A stay at a luxury hotel can be transformative. Hospitality expert, Sarah Dandashy Founder of Ask a Concierge, explains, “Luxury hotels understand that it’s not just about the thread count of the sheets, but about creating an environment where guests feel valued, cared for, and inspired.”

It’s a combination of tangible elements – the sumptuous surroundings, the impeccable service – and the intangible. A sense of possibility, an escape from the ordinary, and a feeling of being treated with extraordinary care.

How to Get Luxury Hotels for Cheap

1. Timing is Everything

Scoring a luxurious hotel stay without breaking the bank is all about strategic timing. Here’s how to make the calendar work in your favor:

Travel during the shoulder season

Shoulder seasons are those sweet spots between the high season (when crowds are highest and prices peak) and the low season (when some attractions or businesses might be closed).

For example, in Europe, aim for spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). Weather is generally pleasant, crowds are smaller, and hotels are more likely to offer competitive rates to attract guests.

Consider off-peak days of the week

If your schedule allows, consider staying at a luxury hotel Sunday through Thursday. Weekend rates are often higher due to increased leisure travel. A mid-week stay can save you significantly.

Take advantage of last-minute deals

While it might seem counterintuitive for luxury accommodations, last-minute deals do exist. If you have the flexibility, keep an eye on hotel websites and booking platforms in the days leading up to your desired stay.

Hotels may offer discounted rates to fill unsold rooms. Just be aware that this strategy carries some risk, especially during popular travel periods.

Jenny McIver Expert Opinion

Jenny McIver, a seasoned travel blogger and founder of RTW Backpackers, advises, “If you have the flexibility, timing your stays strategically can be a game-changer when it comes to finding luxury hotels at affordable prices. Don’t be afraid to break away from the typical weekend getaway mold.”

2. Utilize Online Resources

The internet is a treasure trove of tools to aid your quest for affordable luxury hotel stays. Here’s where to focus your search:

Hotel booking sites

Major online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, Booking.com, and Kayak offer a vast selection of hotels, including luxury properties.

• Filtering is your friend: Use filters to narrow your search by star rating, amenities, location, and price. This helps you focus on finding the luxurious features that matter most to you.
• Comparison shopping: Compare prices across different booking sites. Sometimes, you might find significant variations in rates for the same hotel on different platforms.

Opaque booking sites (Priceline, Hotwire)

Opaque booking sites, like Priceline’s Express Deals and Hotwire’s Hot Rates, present a unique opportunity to score deep discounts on luxury hotels.

The catch? You won’t know the exact hotel name until after you book. However, you’ll be given the star rating, general location, and amenities.

• Decoding the clues: Websites like Bidding Traveler and BetterBidding help decipher the opaque listings, allowing you to make more informed guesses about the potential hotel.
• Risk vs. reward: This strategy is best if you’re flexible about the specific hotel as long as it meets your standards in terms of luxury and location.

Flash sale websites

Websites specializing in flash sales often feature limited-time deals on luxury hotels. Sign up for email alerts from sites like Secret Escapes, Jetsetter, and Voyage Privé to be notified of potential bargains.

Alex Miller Expert Opinion

Alex Miller, founder of the travel rewards website Upgraded Points, stresses the importance of utilizing multiple resources in your search. “Don’t limit yourself to just one or two websites. Cast a wide net to maximize your chances of finding the best possible deal on your dream luxury hotel.”

3. The Power of Loyalty Programs

Hotel loyalty programs offer a path to scoring incredible perks and even free nights at some of the world’s most luxurious properties.

Here’s how to make them work for you:

Sign up for hotel loyalty programs

Most major hotel chains have free-to-join loyalty programs. Even if you’re not a frequent traveler, it’s worth signing up whenever you’re considering a luxury stay, as perks can begin even at the base level.

Popular programs include:

• Marriott Bonvoy
• Hilton Honors
• World of Hyatt
• IHG Rewards

Earn points and redeem for free nights

The basic premise of most hotel loyalty programs is simple: you earn points for your stays. These points can then be redeemed for free nights, room upgrades, or other perks.

• Multiple ways to earn: Look for opportunities to earn points beyond just hotel stays. Programs often partner with credit cards, airlines, and other retailers, allowing you to accumulate points through everyday spending.
• Strategic stays: Target promotions that offer bonus points or accelerate your path to elite status.

Utilize elite status benefits for potential upgrades

As you stay more frequently with a particular hotel chain, you may qualify for elite status tiers.

These higher tiers often come with benefits like complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability), early check-in/late check-out, free breakfast, and more.

Ashley Rossi Expert Opinion

“Hotel loyalty programs are often overlooked when searching for luxury deals,” points out Ashley Rossi, seasoned travel blogger at SmarterTravel. “Dedicating your stays to one or two chains can unlock significant savings and incredible perks over time.”

4. Bundle Up for Savings

Sometimes the best way to get a luxury hotel experience for less is to consider the bigger picture of your trip. Package deals and all-inclusive resorts can offer a path to affordability and convenience.

Look for package deals including flights, hotels, and activities

Travel websites and online travel agencies (OTAs) often bundle together flights, hotels, and sometimes even activities like tours or car rentals.

These package deals can offer significant discounts compared to booking each component separately.

• Where to find them: Check out major booking sites like Expedia, Kayak, and Priceline. Many airlines and tour operators also offer vacation packages.
• Flexibility is important: Packages often offer the best value when you have some flexibility in your travel dates and destinations.

Consider all-inclusive resorts

While not for everyone, an all-inclusive resort can be a cost-effective way to experience luxury. Meals, drinks, activities, and often even spa treatments are included in one upfront price.

• Not just about beaches: All-inclusive properties are popping up in a variety of settings, from mountain retreats to vibrant cities.
• Do your research: Carefully compare what’s included at different resorts, as amenities and quality levels can vary significantly. Consider the resort’s reputation, location, and activities to ensure it aligns with your vacation desires.

Fazendin Expert Opinion

“Package deals and all-inclusive stays can be a brilliant strategy for travelers who prioritize a worry-free, potentially more luxurious experience at a better price,” explains Sarah Fazendin, founder of the travel and lifestyle blog A Week at the Beach.

5. Negotiate Directly with the Hotel

In this era of online booking platforms, don’t underestimate the power of picking up the phone and speaking directly with the hotel.

While not a guaranteed success, negotiation can sometimes pay off, particularly with these tips:

Call the hotel and ask for their best available rate

Don’t just accept the first price quoted on their website. Call the hotel’s reservation line or front desk and politely inquire about their best available rate for your desired dates.

Timing matters: Try calling in the late afternoon or early evening, as these are often shifts when the front desk is less swamped. This gives the staff more time to discuss options with you.

Be polite and persistent

Remember, you’re asking for a favor, not making a demand. A friendly, courteous demeanor goes a long way.

If the first person you speak with isn’t able to offer a better rate, politely ask if there might be a manager or someone in reservations available to discuss further options.

Inquire about special promotions or packages

Hotels might not advertise all their current promotions on their website.

Sometimes, calling directly opens the door to special offers, package deals, or even loyalty program discounts that you might not find online.

Janice Lintz Expert Opinion

“Remember, hotels would rather fill their rooms than have them sit empty,” emphasizes travel expert and blogger, Janice Lintz. “There’s often some wiggle room in pricing, and it never hurts to politely ask.”

6. The Art of the Upgrade

While there’s no guarantee, sometimes a little finesse and the right circumstances can land you a complimentary room upgrade, transforming your luxury hotel dreams into reality.

Here’s how to increase your chances:

Check in at off-peak times

Avoid arriving during peak check-in hours when the front desk is chaotic. Aim for late afternoon or early evening when things are potentially calmer.

If the hotel isn’t fully booked, you might have better luck securing an upgrade.

Dress well and be friendly

First impressions matter. Looking presentable and projecting a friendly, positive demeanor sets a good tone for your interaction with the front desk staff.

While dressing to the nines isn’t necessary, looking polished never hurts.

Mention special occasions

Subtly letting the hotel know you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or other special occasion can sometimes tilt things in your favor.

Don’t be pushy or demanding, but a simple mention might enhance your chances of an upgrade if rooms are available.

What Does “Cheap” Really Mean?

In the realm of luxury accommodations, “cheap” is a relative term. What might be considered budget-friendly for one traveler could be extravagant for another.

Here’s how to establish your own definition to guide your search:

1. Define your budget and expectations

The hard limit: What’s the absolute maximum you’re willing to spend per night? Knowing your financial ceiling helps eliminate options outside your means.

Desired amenities: What luxury features are non-negotiable for you? A stunning pool complex? Spa services? Gourmet dining? Prioritize what makes the experience feel luxurious to you.

Compromise points: Where are you willing to be flexible? Perhaps a smaller room, a location slightly removed from the city center, or forgoing a daily room cleaning service might be acceptable tradeoffs for a better overall price.

2. Relative pricing for luxury hotels

Pricing tiers: Understand that even within the realm of luxury hotels, there’s a vast spectrum of pricing. Five-star resorts in the Maldives will naturally command higher prices than a boutique luxury hotel in a smaller European city.

Research is key: Research typical room rates for luxury hotels in your desired destination during your intended travel dates. This gives you a realistic baseline to gauge deals against.

3. Consider location and seasonality

Location matters: A luxury hotel in a smaller town or a less tourism-centric region might offer fantastic value compared to a similarly rated property in a major metropolis.

Timing is everything: Peak season prices will always be higher. Shoulder seasons or off-peak times offer greater potential for bargain hunting.

James Ferrara Expert Opinion

“Luxury doesn’t have a single price tag,” emphasizes James Ferrara, co-founder of the luxury travel blog InteleTravel. “It’s about finding the places and experiences that offer exceptional quality, service, and an unforgettable ambiance within your desired budget.”

FAQs

Can I really get luxury hotels for cheap?

Yes, strategic planning and flexibility can unlock surprisingly affordable stays at luxury properties. While “cheap” is relative, you can find excellent deals by leveraging the techniques we’ve discussed.

What’s the best way to find deals?

There’s no single “best” way! Combining strategies like using booking sites, timing your travel strategically, joining loyalty programs, and being open to negotiation yields the greatest chance of success.

Is it worth trying to negotiate with the hotel directly?

Absolutely, particularly if you have a specific hotel in mind. A friendly call to the hotel, asking for their best available rate or about any potential promotions, can sometimes uncover extra savings.

Are luxury hotels always better?

Not necessarily. Boutique hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, or well-appointed vacation rentals can offer unique experiences and superb value outside the traditional luxury hotel model.

What if I’m celebrating a special occasion?

Always mention any special occasions when booking or checking in! Hotels often go the extra mile for guests celebrating something special, potentially offering complimentary upgrades or thoughtful touches to elevate your stay.

Conclusion

Finding luxury for less is an achievable goal. While it might require some extra effort and flexibility, the payoff of experiencing the finer side of travel at a fraction of the cost is well worth it. Remember:

• Timing is key: Off-season or shoulder season travel often offers the best rates.
• Be resourceful: Utilize online booking sites, loyalty programs, and package deals.
• Don’t be afraid to ask: Inquire about upgrades at check-in or negotiate directly with the hotel.
• Define your version of luxury: Think outside the box when it comes to what makes a trip feel luxurious for you. Consider location, amenities, and the overall experience when weighing your options.