Whether it’s an opulent and iconic grand hotel, a quirky and cool-minded boutique, a picturesque inn straight out of a storybook or an all-inclusive beachside resort, there’s no shortage of unique lodging options. The industry is growing and evolving, spurred by globalization, digitalization and sustainability.
Traveling and hotels contribute to a robust economy, supporting more than 8.6 million jobs nationwide (including 4.5 million direct jobs in the hospitality industry), generating $248 billion in wages and $157 billion in taxes for federal, state and local governments. In addition, travelers are spending more and extending their stays, driving demand for the industry.
Many hotels offer premium travel discounts to their loyalty program members and other guests, such as AAA or AARP. These discounted rates are a great way to save on a vacation. The best part is that you can join these membership programs for free.
Another simple tip for saving on hotel stays is to book directly with the hotel instead of through a third-party booking site. Typically, hotel chains will match the price of a competing website and will reward you with loyalty points or status if you book with them directly.
Hotel prices can spike during tourist season, so it’s a good idea to avoid the peak travel period if you want to save money. However, it’s also important to keep in mind that the best value may be found during the offseason when hotels are trying to fill rooms.