Planning your next vacation or business trip can now be done from the comfort of your home. Websites like Expedia, Hotwire, Orbit, Travoline, and Kayak can replace traditional travel agents, allowing you to easily find affordable flights, rent cars, and book hotel rooms. All major hotel chains offer online booking options, and many hostels and smaller hotels provide this service too. You can either pay a deposit or pay for your room with a credit or debit card, and sometimes even receive a discount for full payment.

Part 1

Step 1. Compare Prices.

Step 1

Let’s start by comparing prices. You can search for hotels on specialized platforms or through online agents, such as Expedia, Orbit, or Travoline. Make sure there are available rooms and calculate their costs.

  • Pay attention to websites like Hotels.com and Travelweb that focus exclusively on hotel bookings—there’s no car rental or ticket sales here.
  • Check for any potential additional fees. Some independent online agencies may charge for their services ranging from $1 to $10, and in case of cancellation or modification, the money is non-refundable.

Step 2. Book the Hotel.

Step 2

Now let’s proceed to the booking. Choose a room on the hotel’s website or through a travel agent. Make sure you fill in all necessary contact details, as well as your check-in and check-out times.

Step 3. Decide When to Pay.

Step 3

Next, decide when to pay. Once your booking expires, you’ll be presented with the amount due.

  • Paying in full may offer you some advantages like discounts. Many hotel websites provide such options. However, keep in mind that there may be restrictions in case of cancellation or modification.
  • If you’re unsure about your plans, consider booking with a deposit. Pay a deposit equal to one night’s stay to have the flexibility to change your arrival date without serious consequences.
  • You can pay for your room upon arrival at the hotel. Some hotels may require your credit card number to guarantee the booking but do not require prepayment. Many websites do not require this.

Step 4. Decide How to Pay for the Booking.

Step 4

  • The most convenient way is to pay with a credit or debit card. This is necessary for online room booking, and you can use it to pay a deposit or the full amount.
  • If you plan to book through BookIt.com, consider using PayPal—it simplifies the process as you won’t have to enter your card details. BookIt.com was the first online agent to start accepting PayPal. You will need to register in the system.
  • Utilize accumulated miles or points. If you travel frequently, you may be able to get discounts at a specific hotel chain or even a free stay. Just enter your discount card information when booking.

Step 5. Try Bidding on Online Auctions.

Step 5

Try your hand at bidding on online auctions like Priceline or Hotwire. Indicate the amount you’re willing to pay for hotel services and receive suitable options. Keep in mind that you won’t know which hotel you’ll be staying at until you confirm your reservation.

  • Note that full payment is required immediately when booking a room using a credit or debit card.

Step 6. Review the Cancellation Policy.

Step 6

Before confirming your reservation, carefully review the cancellation policy. On some platforms, such as Priceline or Hotwire, changes or cancellations may not be possible. Other sites, like Expedia and Orbitz, may charge additional fees for cancellation. Before making your payment, ensure you know how much time you have for cancellation without incurring extra costs.