10 Hotel Hacks That Could Save You Money (And Make Your Stay Better!)
We all love checking into a hotel…
Fresh sheets.
Fluffy towels.
Tiny bottles of shampoo you’ll definitely “accidentally” pack. 👀
But there are a few things hotels don’t exactly advertise – and knowing them could save you money, get you a better room and make your stay even more enjoyable.
Let’s get into it…
🛎️ 1. You Can Ask for a Better Room
Most people accept the first room they’re given.
Big mistake.
If the hotel isn’t full, simply asking:
“Do you have any complimentary upgrades available?”
could get you a better view, a bigger room or even a balcony.
The worst they can say is…
“No.”
⏰ 2. Early Check-In Isn’t Impossible
Official check-in might be 3pm…
But if your room is ready earlier, many hotels will happily let you in.
Just ask nicely.
Nobody enjoys dragging a suitcase around for five hours. 😅
🚿 3. The Mini Toiletries Are Yours
Yep…
The little shampoos, soaps and body lotions?
Take them.
You’ve already paid for them.
(Just don’t try taking the hairdryer… 😂)
🍳 4. Breakfast Isn’t Always Worth It
Hotels love selling breakfast.
Sometimes it’s fantastic…
Sometimes it’s £20 for beans and toast.
Before adding breakfast, check if there’s a local café nearby.
You’ll often eat better…
…and cheaper.
🚫 5. Don’t Raid the Mini Bar
That tiny bottle of water?
£6.
Those Pringles?
Basically a mortgage payment.
Walk to the nearest supermarket instead.
Your bank account will thank you.
🎂 6. Tell Them If You’re Celebrating
Birthday?
Anniversary?
Honeymoon?
Hotels sometimes leave little surprises like chocolates, drinks or room decorations.
No guarantees…
But it’s always worth mentioning when you book.
📶 7. There’s Often Better Wi-Fi
Many hotels have:
“Free Wi-Fi”
…and then…
“Better Wi-Fi” for paying guests.
Sometimes all you have to do is ask reception if they can move you onto the faster network.
🧹 8. You Don’t Need Fresh Towels Every Day
Unless you’re staying for weeks…
Do you really need brand-new towels every morning?
Reusing towels helps hotels reduce water usage – and it’s a small way to travel more sustainably.
🌍 Every little helps.
💰 9. Booking Direct Isn’t Always Cheaper
You’ve probably heard:
“Always book direct.”
Not always.
Sometimes travel websites or package deals work out cheaper.
The trick?
Compare prices before booking.
(That’s where HolidayGiants comes in 😉)
😄 10. Kindness Goes a Long Way
Reception staff remember friendly guests.
Being polite won’t magically get you a penthouse suite…
But it might get you:
✅ A late checkout
✅ A better room
✅ Extra pillows
✅ Free drinks
Being rude…
Gets you nowhere.
🎁 Bonus Hotel Hack
Forgot your phone charger?
Need extra tea bags?
Want another pillow?
Just ask.
Hotels have far more spare items than most people realise.
The answer might surprise you.
🏨 Final Checkout
Hotels don’t advertise every little perk…
But asking politely, comparing prices and knowing a few insider tricks can make a huge difference to your stay.
Sometimes the best upgrade isn’t a bigger room…
It’s simply avoiding paying £6 for a bottle of water. 😂
