Grayson West
Ever heard of being “walked” by a hotel? It’s not a casual stroll but a travel nightmare when hotels alter or cancel your booking. They might promise future perks, but you must know how to dodge this mishap to keep your trip stress-free. Let’s uncover ten clever ways to protect your reservation.
Confirm Before You Commit
Hotel staff can have doubts sometimes. So, a quick call to confirm your reservation avoids mix-ups. Did you know nearly 20% of overbookings come from miscommunication? But one phone call can turn chaos into clarity—because nobody wants shocks at the check-in counter.
Avoid Late Check-In Times
Arriving late for check-in is never a good idea. If you have an unpaid booking, checking in after 6 PM increases your chances of being walked. Hotels prefer guests who arrive on time, so showing up early ensures you get your keys without hassle—and hey, you might even snag the best room!
Pay for Your Stay in Advance
Prepaid bookings often take priority since no one wants to deal with refund issues. As a result, these guests are rarely walked and are statistically the safest option in case of overbooking. To avoid any hassles, it’s best to skip the pay-at-hotel option and book your room in advance.
Join Hotel Loyalty Programs
Loyalty programs come with great benefits, and one of the best is avoiding overbooking issues. Members, especially elite members, get special treatment. That’s why signing up for a hotel loyalty program is a smart move—it’s free, easy, and ensures you won’t be bumped from your room!
Use Reliable Booking Channels
Direct bookings are the house favorite and get top priority. You can also get discounts and coupons directly from the hotel website if price is a concern. However, third-party sites are like a game of chance because hotels don’t want to pay that commission.
Keep a Record of Your Booking
Digital receipts are your proof of purchase—your confirmation! Showing your confirmation email can be a game-changer during any disputes. Screenshots are your backup, just in case. With this proof in hand, you’ll be ready to handle any reservation issues that come your way.
Communicate Special Requests
Want a late check-in? Say it loud. Hotels prioritize guests who share their plans in advance. There might be a little fee hike for early arrival, but a little communication goes a long way. So speak up, and let them know you mean business.
Be Polite but Persistent
Hospitality thrives on charm, so wield it wisely. Polite remarks and requests make staff rethink canceling your reservation. The saying “Kill them with kindness” works wonders here, and a good trick is to stay calm but firm, and you’ll be the one to stay.
Research Hotel Overbooking Policies
Knowledge is power, and it pays off. Some hotels, like Marriott, openly disclose perks for walked guests. So, read up on your accommodation policies to get the upper hand. Using this particular intel, you can negotiate upgrades if things go sideways.
Arrive Ready to Negotiate
If you ever get walked, you can use it as an opportunity. Good hotels offer valuable deals, such as upgrades, refunds, or even free future stays. This is your time to channel your inner negotiator and walk away with perks that turn a mishap into a win.