With the abundance of online booking services, it is easier than ever to find a great rate on a hotel room. Another great service that these sites can offer is finding upgrades for the same price of a standard room. One caveat when using comparison hotel booking sites is that it is best to book directly with any brands with which you have loyalty program membership. Sites that allow travelers to compare hotel booking information are very helping when planning a vacation to an area that is unfamiliar or offers a lot of different accommodation options to visitors. Comparing various hotels allows tourists to review the available amenities in the area and make an informed decision about their hotel choice. Mapping and other location details are also helpful resources when choosing a hotel for either business travel or a family vacation.
The majority of hotel comparison sites are global with some that are more in-tune with overseas hotels. The large sites such as Orbitz and Travelocity have pretty good coverage overseas. Kayak is very strong with information regarding European and hotels located in other countries.
Almost all hotel information is aggregated on these sites but they do not all cooperate with the travel sites. Some high-end brands will not honor rates published on booking sites and may not treat such guests as courteously as those that book directly.
The sites typically use computer algorithms that scan various websites to find the published rate information. Some also utilize consolidation firms that purchase large blocks of rooms. Likewise, package tour companies and cruise ship agencies do the same.
Most hotels require that all changes be made with the website as that is actually the holder of the hotel room. There is a difference from a best-published rate and the rates available from third parties that purchase hotel room reservations in bulk amounts.
Hotel comparison sites such as Expedia, Travelocity, and Hotels dot com and the like do not charge for use. They receive proceeds from advertisers and a fee from bookings that are transacted through their sites. The consumer may pay a nominal fee when making a booking or may not need to pay a fee to use the site.
Filters are helpful when comparing multiple hotels and certain amenities or features are desired. For example, a filter can be used to show only hotels with swimming pools or spa services that are available during a certain time period. There are many data points that can be compared in addition to price.
One can easily use a booking comparison site to gain the information necessary to make an informed decision and then contact the hotel directly to book the room. This strategy works when the price is a published price rather than a rate from an aggregator.
Sometimes it is more cost effective to book directly with the hotel and mention the rate that is quoted on the hotel booking comparison site. Be aware that not all hotels work with these sites and there are some brands that will not honor prices obtained from them. Generally speaking though, booking sites and directly contacting the hotel will vary in providing the best rate on a case by case basis. It is best to check both when looking for a top hotel deal.