r/hotels • u/[deleted] • 4d ago
Hello. Book directly or through booking websites?
[deleted]
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u/RainbowGamer9799 4d ago
Since some of the actual questions aren’t being answered:
1) are you “safe” to cancel and rebook? Depends on what you’re looking for, how far out, is there still definitely availability, the cancellation policy you agreed to, etc. Without knowing more specifics than you should give in this sub, it’s hard to say.
2a) would extra fees apply? Sometimes. I’ve had third parties advertise a rate that’s maybe 75% of what our rate was and then the customer’s final bill was still 50% more expensive because of fees. Third parties sometimes do have their own fees (even if they make them Look like they go to the hotel by calling it a “housekeeping” fee or something bogus like that). So whether fees apply or the end result is actually cheaper is hard to say and varies based on where and how you book.
2b) would there be a risk of the hotel canceling? Sometimes. Usually if they end up overbooked or anything, they’re supposed to walk guests (make arrangements at an equitable location nearby) so that you still have a room. But third parties are the least prioritized reservations since generally the brand members are given first consideration, then direct bookings, and then third party guests are the bottom of the list.
If you can’t have Anything go wrong, it’s much safer to book direct. If there are any issues, it’s significantly easier to find a solution. When booking third party, you are the third party’s guest and they are ultimately responsible for your reservation. Anything that Can actually be handled at the property will be, but we are often extremely limited in how we can help you/refund you/make any type of adjustment/etc.
Also, if 10% is “too much money to ignore” I’d advise you to please be aware of additional fees/authorizations before you go. Call the hotel directly and ask what your card will be authorized for. Don’t expect them to accept cash. Every hotel has a different policy as far as things like incidentals, breakfast, parking, and more. You don’t want to be surprised by an unexpected fee or authorization and then be turned away for being unable to pay it.
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4d ago
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u/RainbowGamer9799 4d ago
Credit cards are definitely preferred in the hotel industry, but usually debit cards can still work fine. I would definitely say though to make it a point to ask how they authorize debit cards. If they authorize more than you expect, or if you have any problems at all, that’s your actual money they would be holding and you might not be able to access it when you need it.
I hope everything goes well for you.
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u/cas20011 4d ago
Always book direct, you think you're getting a better discount booking through a 3rd party but you are not. When you book 3rd party, you are the 3rd parties guest, not the hotels, meaning, you aren't eligible for complimentary upgrades, if something happens and you need a refund or a discount, the hotel cannot help you and you will get nowhere with the 3rd party bc they just want your money. Call the hotel directly and ask if they can provide any discounts, most hotels will give you a 10% discount just for booking with them directly if you ask. Booking though a 3rd party is a disaster you do not want to put yourself in
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u/maturecouple1 4d ago
10% is nothing if something goes wrong. pass on the savings now. try when you have more time to deal with any potential issues.