Whether you are traveling on business or on vacation, hotels are an important part of the trip. They provide amenities to make your stay more comfortable, such as a private bathroom and breakfast buffet. Some hotels also offer additional services, such as airport transfers.

As a traveler, it is always best to compare rates and choose a hotel that meets your needs. You can do so by using price comparison websites. You may also want to use rewards programs to save on hotels. Some hotels offer free stays for their employees and others have special rates for family members.

It is important to book hotels in advance, especially during popular tourist destinations. You will save money by booking early and you will have more time to plan.

Some hotels have flexible cancellation policies. You can find the details about the policy in your online confirmations. Other hotels require a non-refundable deposit and you may be required to pay a change fee. If you book with a credit card, you may be able to cancel your reservation without penalty.

The price of traveling is constantly increasing. The cost is driven by rising labor costs, as well as supply costs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an 8.6 percent increase in the cost of traveling in the U.S. last year.

A growing number of travelers are willing to pay more for a better travel experience. Many hotel chains have loyalty programs that offer discounts on rooms and other benefits. There are also homesharing sites like Zues and Sonder.