Gone are the days when hotel bookings are only made via phone calls, mails, and walk-ins. Today, you can book a hotel located in a different country for a trip one week from now, in less than 10 minutes — all thanks to the internet.

When booking online, you have two options: you may use third-party websites to find a hotel in your target destination for the best price, and compare all of the properties that offer accommodation. The second option is to find your ideal hotel’s official website and book directly with them. While the former often gives you cheaper hotel rates, the latter has several advantages that go beyond the price tag.

If you’re planning to travel this 2021 and book a hotel online, here are 7 reasons why booking directly with the hotel is the best way to go.

1. No hidden fees, no false promises

The prices shown on most third-party websites might appear cheap at first look but are more expensive than it actually is. They often show prices without the taxes and fees, only to surprise you with a higher final price upon checkout. Some third-party booking sites even charge a booking fee, which can negate any savings.

Hotels are clear about their prices, as well as the things included in the rate, to avoid any misunderstandings. No hidden fees and other false promises here.

If you find a better hotel rate on a third-party site, make sure to compare a price quote between the hotel and the booking site after taxes and fees have been included.

2. Transparent and flexible conditions

Transparent and clear policies are crucial when making hotel reservations. Typically, hotel policies are clearer and easier to digest. Their policies aren’t those long, fine prints that are usually left unread when we check that “I agree” box.

Additionally, hotel policies are more flexible. If you need to cancel or postpone your trip, you’ll have a better chance of getting your money back or rescheduling your stay when you book directly with the hotel. They’ll be willing to make such amendments as per availability without any extra charges and hassles.

3. You’ll get the best price, plus exclusive perks

So you’re planning to visit the stunning Wicklow Ireland and you want to stay in the best Wicklow hotel possible to make your dream international trip come true? Booking directly is the way to go.

Hotels tend to offer the best rate when guests book directly with them. While third-party sites are a cheaper option for last-minute bookings, travel packages, local hotels, and non-cancelable reservations, there are several instances when booking directly with the hotel gives you better value for your money.

When you book via third-party booking sites, hotels need to pay a commission between 10% to 25% of the total booking value. By booking directly with the hotel, they’ll save on such commissions and they’ll be happier to give you discounts and other exclusive perks.

4. You’ll redeem and/or earn points

You can save a lot while having VIP-worthy hotel experiences when you book directly with the hotel using points or rewards. Booking directly allows you to earn loyalty points which may translate to free overnight stays, breakfasts, and other perks.

5. Access to the best rooms and experiences

It’s safe to say that you shouldn’t expect VIP treatments when you book via third-party sites. Hotels reserve their luxury guestrooms, amenity packages, and even ticket bundles to local attractions for guests with direct bookings. They’re also more than willing to provide free upgrades if you book directly with them.

If you book a last-minute, discounted rate from a third-party site, chances are that you’ll get a less than stellar room — small bathrooms, leaky showers, worn furniture, ugly window view, etc. That room is probably one of the last few vacant ones left after the good ones have been filled.

6. More flexibility to make special arrangements

Are you booking a hotel in Wicklow for your anniversary? Do you need to make special arrangements, like having your guestroom decorated with candles and petals, or book a private dinner for two? If you’re celebrating a special occasion, it’s a hundred percent better to book directly with the hotel. With this, they’ll be more involved to make your special day more memorable.

7. Secured and instant confirmation of your reservation

Do you get paranoid about online payments and reservations? Do you have doubts about whether or not the hotel got your reservation right? Are you afraid of lending your credit card information to unseen entities online? If you have these doubts, then you’re better off booking directly with the hotel.

Booking through the hotel website is easy, fast, and secure. There will be no risk of discrepancy regarding availability. Your reservation is confirmed at the moment you booked. You’ll also worry less about fraudulent activities when you make your reservations using the hotel’s official website.

Author Bio: Carmina Natividad is a foodie and travel blogger who loves discovering new sights and experiences. Her fondness for travel, food, and cultural appreciation makes it easy for her to write inspiring pieces of content about them. To know more about hotels and travel blogs, you may visit Tulfarris Hotel Wicklow.