Planning a vacation is always exciting, but paying for it can be less so. However, with the right strategies, it’s possible to save big on travel expenses. Priceline, one of the most popular online travel booking sites, can be a great tool for finding deals on flights, hotels, and rental cars. In this article, we’ll explore 12 tips for getting discounts on Priceline. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a newcomer to the world of online booking, you’re sure to find some valuable insights here that will help you save money on your next trip.
Timing Your Purchase for Maximum Savings
When it comes to getting the best deals on Priceline, timing is everything. If you’re looking to book a flight, it’s best to do so during the week, ideally on a Tuesday or Wednesday. This is because airlines tend to release their cheapest fares on these days in order to compete with other airlines. Additionally, if you’re able to be flexible with your travel dates, you may be able to find even better deals. For hotels, the best time to book is typically around two to four weeks before your travel dates. This is when hotels are looking to fill their remaining rooms and may offer discounted rates in order to do so.
Using Priceline Coupons and Promo Codes
Priceline frequently offers coupons and promo codes that can help you save on your travel expenses. These codes can typically be found on Priceline’s website or through third-party coupon sites. When using a promo code, it’s important to make sure it’s still valid and to read the terms and conditions carefully. Some promo codes may only apply to specific types of bookings or have other restrictions.
Bidding on Priceline for Hotels and Rental Cars
One of the unique features of Priceline is its “Name Your Own Price” bidding system, which allows you to bid on hotels and rental cars in order to get the best possible price. To use this feature, simply enter the details of your trip and the price you’re willing to pay. If your bid is accepted, you’ll be notified of the hotel or rental car company you’ll be using. Keep in mind that this feature can be hit or miss, so it’s important to have a backup plan in case your bid isn’t accepted. Additionally, make sure to research the average prices for your desired accommodations before bidding to ensure you’re getting a good deal.
Booking Priceline Express Deals
If you’re looking for a great deal on a hotel or rental car, Priceline’s Express Deals can be a great option. With this feature, you’ll be able to see the price and general location of your accommodations before booking, but the specific details will be kept hidden until after you make your purchase. This allows hotels and rental car companies to offer discounts without having to publicly advertise their lower prices. To use this feature, simply enter your travel details and desired location, and Priceline will show you a list of Express Deals that match your criteria. Keep in mind that once you book an Express Deal, it’s non-refundable and cannot be changed, so make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before making your purchase.
Signing Up for Priceline Rewards Programs
If you’re a frequent traveler, signing up for Priceline’s rewards programs can be a great way to earn points and save money on future bookings. Priceline offers two rewards programs: Priceline VIP and Priceline Rewards Visa. Priceline VIP is free to join and offers members exclusive discounts and early access to sales. Priceline Rewards Visa, on the other hand, is a credit card that allows you to earn points on all of your purchases, not just travel-related ones. These points can then be redeemed for free hotel stays, rental cars, and flights. Keep in mind that while these rewards programs can be a great way to save money, they may not be worth it if you carry a balance on your credit card or if you don’t travel frequently enough to earn enough points.
Comparing Prices on Priceline vs. Other Travel Sites
While Priceline is known for its great deals, it’s always a good idea to compare prices on other travel sites to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal. Some popular travel sites to compare prices with include Expedia, Travelocity, and Orbitz. When comparing prices, make sure to factor in any additional fees or taxes that may be charged on each site. Additionally, make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure that the booking is refundable and that there are no hidden fees. Keep in mind that even if you find a better price on another site, Priceline’s customer service and ease of use may make it worth the extra cost.
There are many strategies you can use to save money on Priceline, from using coupons and promo codes to booking Express Deals and bidding on hotels and rental cars. Additionally, signing up for Priceline’s rewards programs and comparing prices on other travel sites can help you maximize your savings. By using a combination of these strategies, you’ll be able to save money on your next vacation and make the most of your travel budget. So start planning your next adventure and let Priceline help you get there without breaking the bank.
Using Priceline Mobile App for Discounts
If you’re always on the go, using the Priceline mobile app can be a great way to get exclusive discounts and deals. In addition to offering the same great deals as the website, the app also offers exclusive discounts for mobile users. To take advantage of these discounts, simply download the Priceline app on your iOS or Android device and start browsing. Additionally, the app allows you to receive push notifications for price drops and exclusive deals, so you’ll never miss out on a great deal.
Taking Advantage of Priceline’s Price Drop Protection
One of Priceline’s lesser-known features is its Price Drop Protection, which can help you save money even after you’ve made a booking. If the price of your hotel or rental car drops after you’ve booked, Priceline will refund you the difference. To take advantage of this feature, simply check the Price Drop Protection box when you’re booking your accommodations. Keep in mind that this feature only applies to bookings made at least 24 hours in advance, and you’ll need to submit a claim within 24 hours of the price drop to be eligible for a refund.
Bundling Travel for Additional Discounts
If you’re looking for a way to save even more money on your travel, bundling your accommodations with other travel components can be a great way to do so. Priceline offers bundled deals on flights, hotels, and rental cars, which can often save you hundreds of dollars compared to booking each component separately. In addition to these bundled deals, Priceline also offers vacation packages, which can include everything from flights and hotels to activities and tours. These packages can be a great way to save even more money, especially if you’re looking to book an all-inclusive vacation.
Priceline Negotiator Tool for Savings
For those who are willing to take a little more risk, Priceline’s Negotiator Tool can be a great way to save money on travel accommodations. With this tool, you can make an offer on a hotel or rental car and Priceline will try to find a match for your offer. While this method can be hit or miss, it can often result in substantial savings compared to the regular prices listed on Priceline. Keep in mind that you won’t know the exact hotel or car rental company you’ll be booking with until your offer is accepted, but you can narrow down the options based on location, star rating, and amenities.
Overall, Priceline offers a wide variety of options for travelers looking to save money on their travel accommodations. From using coupons and promo codes to bundling travel components, there are many ways to get a discount on Priceline. However, it’s important to remember that the best deals often require some research and flexibility. By taking the time to compare prices and consider different options, you can maximize your savings and make the most of your travel budget.
Conclusion
Planning a trip can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. By using the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can save money on your travel expenses and make the most of your vacation budget. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a newcomer to online booking, there’s something here for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure and let Priceline help you save along the way.