Travel agents often have very competitive rates, and I’ve found that we frequently offered better deals than booking directly with the hotel or through third-party sites. One platform I found especially competitive was Luxury Escapes, which regularly had some fantastic offers.

When it comes to hotels, booking directly is usually the safest bet. Most properties prefer direct bookings and often provide the best perks or flexible cancellation policies. However, if you do find a cheaper rate elsewhere, many hotels will match it—or even offer an even better price—so it’s always worth checking.

 

When I worked as a travel agent, I often used Booking.com and Expedia to book villas, as we had agent logins that gave access to competitive rates. I found that no other platform offered the same range of options or prices. That said, it’s always worth checking directly with the property as well, since direct bookings can sometimes offer perks, added flexibility, or price matching to get you the cheapest rates. Some properties on Booking.com offer mobile-only prices, which are often unbeatable. I found that no other platform could match these rates, so it’s always worth checking if the property you’re interested in has a mobile-only option—these deals can be incredibly competitive.

 

If you sign up for an account for Booking.com, you can access instant savings with a Genius account and amazing discounts the more you book.

Unlock Levels: Complete bookings (stays, car rentals, flights, activities) to reach higher tiers.

• Level 1: 10% discount on select stays/cars (any account holder).
• Level 2: 10-15% off, free breakfast, free room upgrades (after 5 bookings in 2 years).
• Level 3: 10-20% off, free breakfast, upgrades, priority support (after 15 bookings in 2 years).

 

To get the best prices on bookings, it’s important to make the most of available discounts and deals. Always sign in to your account to access specific Genius discounts, and look for the Genius logo on listings, which indicates special rates and perks. These discounts can sometimes be combined with promo codes for even bigger savings. Non-stay bookings, such as tours and activities, also count toward reaching higher Genius levels, unlocking further benefits. Flexibility is key: consider last-minute deals or book cancellable rooms in advance so plans can be adjusted if needed. Finally, even when using Genius, it’s wise to compare the final price with non-Genius rates and other sites, as discounts can vary.

 

Agoda is a leading online travel booking platform known for offering some of the most affordable rates on accommodation, flights, and airport transfers—particularly across Asia and the Pacific. Based in Singapore, it’s well known for its competitive pricing, flash deals, and an extensive range of properties from budget stays to luxury resorts. It also provides flexible booking options, verified guest reviews, and a rewards program that helps travellers save on future trips. And while these deals are popular with the public, travel agents also have access to the same competitive rates, allowing them to secure great value for their clients.

Book Early or Last Minute

Booking well in advance often gives you access to attractive early-bird discounts, especially in popular and sought-after travel destinations. On the flip side, some hotels and hostels frequently offer enticing last-minute deals to fill empty rooms — an ideal opportunity for flexible and spontaneous travelers.

Look for Discounts and Promo Codes

Sign up for newsletters or follow your favorite booking sites on social media platforms. Many of these services regularly offer exclusive promo codes, special deals, or seasonal discounts that can help you save anywhere from 10–30% or even more on your bookings.

Join Loyalty Programs

Frequent traveler programs or hotel loyalty schemes can provide enticing benefits such as free nights, room upgrades, or access to exclusive discounts, making these programs an excellent way to save money and enhance your experience if you travel frequently.

Consider Longer Stays