For travelers who do not hold loyalty status with a hotel chain – either through staying enough nights or holding the right rewards credit cards – getting an upgrade is sometimes out of reach. While some travelers price it out at check-in, others go out of their way to see what is available during the booking process in hopes that their options will align. Much like airlines, some hotels also offer proactive upgrades after booking, in hopes to lure travelers to spend more for a better room.
Not to be outdone, last-minute hotel booking application Hotel Tonight has also rolled out an upgrade option for travelers. Are these upgrades a worthwhile use of resources? Let’s take a closer look at how the system works.
How Hotel Tonight upgrades work
According to TechCrunch, those looking for a special upgrade in Hotel Tonight start during the booking process. After searching for a location and dates, frugal travelers can select from one of the many accommodations that meet their wants and budget. In addition, some hotels offer special discounts based on where travelers are located, while others receive special perks through the app.
After selecting a hotel, some may receive special offer during checkout: receive an upgraded room for a discounted price. By selecting the switch, frugal travelers can receive better accommodations for a set additional price per night. In many situations, travelers may not know they qualify for an upgrade until they select a hotel.
Arguments for a Hotel Tonight upgrade
As noted above, getting an upgrade offer may not be an easy process unless you hold some sort of loyalty status with your preferred hotel chain. Through Hotel Tonight, those looking for a last-minute deal now have immediate access to better rooms at a discounted rate, giving travelers even more option when it comes time to travel.
Furthermore, because Hotel Tonight specializes in offering surplus rooms at a deal, frugal travelers who often wait until the last minute can often get a good room at a competitive price. In some situations – especially when an upgrade is involved – it does pay off to wait until the last minute.
Arguments against a Hotel Tonight upgrade
While getting an upgrade offer can be fun, it can also come with some downsides as well. First off, the upgrade price is per night – not an overall price. Therefore, adding on an upgrade can end up increasing the price by hundreds of dollars. For destinations where travelers will not be spending time inside their hotel rooms, this could be extra money spent for little return.
In addition, there are potentially better ways to earn upgrades while seeing the world, simply by holding the right credit card. For luxury travelers who are always on the go, The Platinum Card from American Express offers instant elite status with both Hilton Hotels and Starwood Preferred Guest, increasing the opportunities to earn bonus points and upgrades. In addition, the Platinum Card also offers access to Fine Hotels and Resorts, many of which come with upgrade guarantees and other exclusive perks.
While everyone loves an upgrade, it is only a bonus when it makes sense. While travelers have a great opportunity to live a little nicer with Hotel Tonight upgrades, they should think carefully before agreeing to spending the little more. Overall, the new addition is definitely welcome and I look forward to trying to get that elusive upgrade on a future trip.
Would you upgrade your Hotel Tonight experience if given the chance? Let us know how you feel about this new perk in the comments below!
Written by Frugal Travel Guy @ http://www.frugaltravelguy.com
Written by Frugal Travel Guy @ http://www.frugaltravelguy.com