Travelers right now are presented with more booking options than ever before. Online journey agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com dominate the search results, offering deals and comparisons across hundreds of properties. Nonetheless, a rising number of seasoned vacationers are selecting to book directly with hotels. Why? Because direct booking can offer distinctive advantages that third-party platforms merely can’t match.

Better Rates and Perks

One of many biggest misconceptions within the travel world is that OTAs always offer the lowest prices. While they usually advertise exclusive deals, many hotels guarantee one of the best rate on their own websites. Some even offer price matching or discounts for guests who book directly.

Beyond value, booking directly often comes with added perks. These may embrace free breakfast, room upgrades, early check-in, late check-out, or complimentary parking and Wi-Fi. These extras can significantly enhance your stay and are normally reserved for direct bookers or loyalty members.

Greater Flexibility

Another key advantage of direct booking is flexibility. Most hotels supply more beneficiant cancellation and modification policies if you book through their site. With OTAs, modifications can be more complicated and generally incur higher fees, especially if the booking is part of a non-refundable promotion.

Direct communication with the hotel also makes it easier to customize your stay. Need a crib in the room? Need a particular floor or view? These requests are more likely to be accommodated when the hotel can work with you directly fairly than through a third-party portal.

Loyalty Rewards and Unique Provides

If you happen to’re a frequent traveler, joining a hotel’s loyalty program can be very rewarding. Points earned from direct bookings may be redeemed without cost nights, upgrades, or different benefits. Most chains—reminiscent of Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG One Rewards—only award points for direct reservations.

Hotels also tend to promote their finest provides directly on their websites or via e mail to subscribers. These unique packages could embrace seasonal reductions, bonus nights, or dining credits that are not available through OTAs.

Higher Customer Service

While you book through a third-party site and something goes mistaken—similar to overbooking or a cancellation—it will be harder to resolve the issue quickly. Hotels typically have limited ability to make changes or challenge refunds for OTA bookings, which means you may have to go through the third party’s customer support, which can delay solutions.

Booking directly provides you a direct line of communication with the hotel staff. If any problems arise, it’s easier and faster to find a resolution. Hotels typically prioritize guests who book with them over those who come through OTAs when it comes to upgrades and problem resolution.

When OTAs Would possibly Be Useful

That said, OTAs do supply benefits in particular situations. They’re glorious tools for evaluating prices, areas, and amenities throughout a number of properties at once. Some additionally bundle deals with flights or car leases for added savings. In case you’re booking a trip on short notice or exploring unfamiliar destinations, OTAs can provide useful user reviews and scores that simplify the choice process.

In uncommon cases, third-party platforms may need access to particular rates during high-demand intervals or supply loyalty points through their own programs, akin to Expedia Rewards. Nonetheless, it’s always price checking the hotel’s direct website before making a last decision.

The Bottom Line

Booking directly with hotels usually leads to raised service, added perks, and more flexible terms. While OTAs might be useful for comparison and planning, savvy travelers more and more turn to direct booking for a more reliable and personalized experience. Earlier than locking in your subsequent stay, take a moment to check the hotel’s website—you may be stunned at what you find.

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