If you’re retired then you might finally have the freedom to travel – but that doesn’t mean that you don’t have to watch your spending. However, senior citizens are often actually entitled to some amazing discounts if they know where to look. Here are some simple tips to getting great deals when staying away from home.
1. Let Them Know You’re A Senior
The first step is an obvious one – let the hotel know that you’re a senior and ask them if they have any discounts or offers available. If you don’t, you might never know. And even if they don’t have set deals, they may nevertheless offer you a courtesy discount.
2. Haggle
Of course, if you really want to stay in a specific location it may be worth your while to argue your case. Be polite and leave the ball in their court. Tell them how much you’d like to stay with them – but note that another hotel has offered you a discount, so would be a little cheaper (it’ll help to do some research in order to back this up). Hopefully, they’ll match the offer – and if not, maybe they’ll throw in some freebies.
3. Follow The Offers
Failing a direct approach, you can always head straight to hotels that you know generally offer discounts. Here’s a brief selection:
Choice Hotels: A 10% discount is available for seniors aged 60+ who book in advance.
Hampton Inns & Suites: Has a 10% discount for seniors when booking at least 72 hours ahead of time.
Historic Hotels of America: Provides a 10% discount for AARP members.
Hyatt Hotels: Hyatt offers some steep discounts for seniors aged 60+ – which can be as much as half price. All you have to do is book a reservation for two.
InterContinental Hotels: Has a variety of offers for seniors aged 62+.
La Quinta: Offers a range of offers for seniors aged 65+. Just ask and see what’s available.
Marriott: Provides a 15% discount for seniors aged 62+.
Motel 6: Seniors aged 60+ who book by phone can get a 10% discount.
Omni Hotels: Has a variety of offers for seniors aged 55+.
Red Roof Inn: Has a senior rate available for online bookings.
Wyndham Hotels: Has a number of offers for seniors aged 60+.
Of course, you should remember that individual hotels may have a different policy and that chains may change their offers from time to time and without notice.