Christmas is one of the most expensive times of the year to book a hotel (Image: Getty)
Christmas is one of the most expensive times of the year to book a hotel, with prices rising sharply in December as families travel, couples take winter breaks and demand surges across big cities. Many people end up paying far more than they planned, but a travel expert says there are simple ways to cut the cost.
According to money specialists, hotel rates can vary hugely depending on when and how you book. Small changes to travel dates, choosing less popular areas and using certain booking features could save Brits hundreds of pounds on their festive break. Most people assume that all rooms will be expensive in December, but that isn’t always the case.
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Weekend hotel prices rise sharply in December as demand peaks (Image: Getty)
Travel experts say the key is knowing when demand dips, how hotels set their prices and which booking tricks actually work.
The advice comes from Melissa Cid, Consumer Savings Expert at deal-saving website My Savings, which has been helping travellers cut costs since 2003.
She said people are often unaware that the same hotel room can cost far less depending on the day of the week.
Melissa added: “With a bit of strategic planning and knowing where to look, you can find the same rooms for a fraction of the cost.”
Below are the six tips she says can make the biggest difference this Christmas.
1. Book Sunday to Wednesday stays
Weekend hotel prices rise sharply in December as demand peaks, but midweek rooms are usually much cheaper.
Melissa said: “Midweek Christmas stays can be 30-40% cheaper than weekend rates.
“If you have flexibility with your dates, arriving on a Sunday and checking out by Wednesday can result in significant savings.”
Midweek Christmas stays can be 30-40% cheaper (Image: Getty)
2. Use ‘hidden deal’ apps
Some apps hide the hotel name until after you book, allowing chains to offer lower prices without publicly discounting.
Melissa said: “Apps like Hotwire and Priceline’s Express Deals can offer savings of up to 50% on luxury hotels.”
3. Check hotel websites directly
Many chains offer member-only rates that undercut comparison sites.
Melissa said: “A lot of hotel chains offer loyalty programmes that are free to join and provide instant discounts of 10-15%.
“Marriott, Hilton, and IHG all have member rates that are frequently cheaper. »
Speaking to staff can unlock unpublished rates (Image: Getty)
4. Call the front desk
Speaking to staff can unlock unpublished rates, especially close to the date of travel.
Melissa said: “About a week before your intended stay, call the hotel directly and ask what their best available rate is.
“Front desk staff can often access unpublished rates or upgrades.”
5. Target new hotels
Recently opened hotels often offer promotional rates to attract guests.
Melissa said: “New hotels in December are goldmines for bargain hunters. They’re willing to offer substantial discounts. »
6. Expand your search radius
Staying slightly outside a city centre can be far cheaper. Melissa said: “Hotels two to five miles outside main city centres can be 40% cheaper, especially during Christmas when central locations charge peak rates.
“With good public transport or a short taxi ride, you’ll still have easy access to all the festive activities while keeping much more money in your pocket.”
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