Things to consider before booking holiday

Table of Contents

What to know before booking a hotel

Tips for booking hotels

What to look for when booking a hotel? Services such as booking.com offer rating from 1 to 10. This rating is based on reviews genuine guests left on hotel’s profile or apartment’s profile. I generally try to look for anything over 8. As we know, people are more likely to leave reviews when they are unhappy, rather than sharing their opinion when received a good service. Basic things like dates and location are a must, and the earlier you book it, the more likely you are to get a better price. Know what sort of board you want, how many meals, what is important for you to have in your room, for example kettle, iron etc. Remember, a lot of hotels in hot countries do not have kettles and it might be something that you would need to request. It’s worth making sure that hotel does have it and perhaps making this request in the comments section while booking is a good idea. If you would like to have a safe, this is something you have to look out when booking your stay. Making a list of things that you want/need is a fantastic idea.

Things to consider when booking a hotel

Location – Consider the hotel’s location in relation to your activities and points of interest. Determine if it’s in a safe area and convenient for transportation.
Amenities – Check the amenities offered by the hotel, such as Wi-Fi, parking, gym, pool, breakfast, room service, etc. Ensure they align with your needs and preferences.
Reviews and Ratings – Read reviews from multiple sources to understand the experiences of previous guests. Look for consistent feedback on cleanliness, service quality, and facilities.
Room Options – Hotels often offer various room types. Consider factors like view, size, and specific features when choosing a room.
Price and Deals – Compare prices on different booking platforms and the hotel’s website. Look for special deals, discounts, or packages that might be available.
Cancellation Policies – Understand the hotel’s cancellation policy in case your plans change. Some reservations might be non-refundable or have penalties for cancellations.
Safety and Security – Ensure that the hotel meets safety standards and has security measures in place. Check for features like secure entry, surveillance cameras, and well-lit areas.
Accessibility – If you have specific accessibility needs, ensure that the hotel can accommodate them. Check for features like wheelchair access, elevators, and accessible rooms.
Local Transportation – Consider the proximity of the hotel to public transportation options or the availability of taxi services if needed for your itinerary.
Additional Fees – Be aware of extra charges, such as resort fees, parking fees, taxes, or any other surcharges that might not be included in the initial booking price.

Things to consider when booking a flight

First of all, be sure about your travel dates. Once the flights are booked, and you have not chose flexi option(not all airlines offer this option), you would need to pay a lot more money to rebook it or buy a new ticket all together. Second very important thing, especially when booking via third party companies such as booking.com, sky scanner etc, research Arline’s luggage police and double check what is included in your booking. A lot of airlines will charge you double or triple the price of the ticket to add a small hand luggage to your booking. There is plenty of add-ons available such as car rental, travel insurance etc. Check the prices of the above before booking it via your flight provided as it will be probably a lot cheaper.

Price – Compare prices across different airlines and booking platforms. Flexibility with travel dates and times can often result in better deals.
Flight Duration and Layovers – Consider the duration of the flight and the number of layovers. Sometimes, a longer layover might significantly reduce the ticket cost, but it can also extend your travel time.
Airline Reputation and Reviews – Check reviews and ratings for the airlines you’re considering. Look for feedback on service quality, punctuality, comfort, and overall customer satisfaction.
Baggage Allowance – Understand the baggage policy of the airline—weight limits, fees for extra bags, and carry-on restrictions.
Seating Preferences – Some airlines charge for seat selection, especially for more desirable seats like extra legroom or seats in the front. Consider your seating preferences and the associated costs.
In-Flight Amenities – Check what amenities are offered during the flight, such as entertainment options, meals, Wi-Fi availability, and comfort features like blankets or pillows.
Flight Times and Time Zone – Consider how flight times align with your schedule and time zone changes if you’re traveling across different zones. This can impact jet lag and your overall travel experience.
Airport Location and Transfers – Look at the airports for departure and arrival, considering their proximity to your accommodation and the ease of transportation from the airport.
Flexibility and Cancellation Policies – Understand the airline’s policies regarding changes, cancellations, and refunds. Sometimes, flexibility can be crucial, especially in uncertain situations.
Safety Measures – Check the airline’s safety record and their adherence to safety protocols, especially important during uncertain times or when traveling to regions with specific safety concerns.

Is it cheaper to book excursions in advance ?

Booking excursions in advance can sometimes be cheaper for several reasons:

Early Bird Discounts – Tour companies often offer early booking discounts to encourage travelers to plan ahead. These discounts can significantly reduce the cost of excursions.
Availability – Popular excursions and activities tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Booking in advance secures your spot and might offer better pricing before availability becomes limited.
Package Deals – Some tour operators or travel agencies offer package deals that include multiple excursions or activities at a discounted rate when booked together.
Avoiding Last-Minute Rush – Booking in advance allows you to avoid last-minute rush fees or higher prices that can occur when trying to book excursions closer to the date of your trip.
Currency Fluctuations – Prices for excursions can be subject to currency fluctuations, especially if you’re traveling internationally. Booking in advance at a set price can protect you from potential price increases due to currency changes.

However, there can be exceptions. Sometimes, local vendors or tour operators may offer last-minute discounts to fill unsold spots. It’s a balancing act between securing your plans early for peace of mind and taking advantage of potential last-minute deals.

Ultimately, it’s advisable to research and compare prices, consider cancellation policies, and assess the popularity of the excursion before deciding whether to book in advance or wait until closer to the date.

Useful links for booking your holiday

Booking.com