How to Get the Most Out of Hotel Perks on Your Next Trip
When you travel, the hotel you choose can make a big difference in your overall experience. A well-chosen stay offers more than just a place to sleep—it can be the highlight of your trip. And, if you’re savvy about how you book, you can unlock valuable perks that can truly elevate your stay. Early check-ins, complimentary room upgrades, and resort credits are just a few examples of what’s possible when you book through a travel advisor. But how do you take advantage of these benefits? Let’s explore the best ways to maximize hotel perks on your next getaway.
Why Booking Through a Travel Advisor Matters
Travel advisors have insider access to exclusive offers and perks you won’t find on your typical booking site. They work closely with hotels and are often part of special networks that allow them to secure benefits for their clients—benefits that can make a big impact on your trip. For example, at Oscar and Olive Travel, we can often arrange for perks such as:
Early check-ins and late checkouts
Complimentary breakfast
Resort or dining credits
Room upgrades
Free Wi-Fi and parking
The beauty of working with a travel advisor is that these perks come at no extra cost to you. You get more value from your stay without spending more money.
The Perks That Make a Difference
Now that you know how a travel advisor can unlock special benefits, let’s dive into a few specific perks and how to get the most out of them.
1. Early Check-In and Late Checkout
Arriving at your hotel after a long flight and having to wait hours for your room can be frustrating. Similarly, having to check out early when you have a later flight can put a damper on your plans. That’s where early check-in and late checkout come in handy. Many hotels offer this perk through travel advisor bookings, letting you enjoy more time in your room without rushing.
How to make the most of it:
When booking, tell your travel advisor your arrival and departure times so they can request early check-in or late checkout on your behalf. This way, you’ll have a better chance of getting into your room sooner or enjoying a leisurely last morning before you depart.
2. Room Upgrades
One of the most delightful surprises during a hotel stay is being told you’ve been upgraded. Whether it’s a room with a view, a larger suite, or extra amenities, a room upgrade can add a luxurious touch to your trip. Travel advisors often have access to preferential room allocations, meaning you have a good shot at an upgrade—especially if you book during quieter times.
How to make the most of it:
Upgrades usually depend on availability, so while they aren’t guaranteed, mentioning a special occasion—such as a honeymoon or anniversary—can help your chances. Hotels often love to make your stay extra memorable during life’s big moments, and your advisor can communicate that to them.
3. Daily Breakfast
Free breakfast might not seem like a big deal until you see the price tag for it in some luxury hotels. What’s better than starting your day with a delicious, complimentary breakfast—especially one that would otherwise cost $30 or more per person? Through many hotel programs, travel advisors can often secure daily breakfast for two as part of your stay.
How to make the most of it:
Check with your travel advisor about the type of breakfast being offered. Is it a buffet, continental breakfast, or à la carte? Knowing this in advance helps you plan your mornings. And if you follow a specific diet, like plant-based eating, let your advisor know so they can confirm if suitable options are available.
4. Resort Credits
Resort credits are a great way to experience more of what your hotel offers without dipping into your budget. Many luxury hotels offer credits that can be used for a range of on-site activities, such as spa treatments, dining, or golf. These credits allow you to enjoy the full experience of a hotel or resort, often at no extra cost.
How to make the most of it:
Talk to your travel advisor before your stay to understand what the resort credits can be applied to. This way, you can plan how you’ll use them—whether it’s a spa day, a fancy dinner, or something else entirely.
5. Welcome Amenities and Personal Touches
When you book through a travel advisor, hotels often go the extra mile to make you feel special. This could be a bottle of wine, a box of chocolates, or even a personalized note waiting in your room when you arrive. It’s the little things that make a difference, and these small touches can make your stay feel a bit more luxurious.
How to make the most of it:
If you’re celebrating a milestone—a birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion—be sure to let your travel advisor know. Hotels are usually more than happy to add a little something extra to make your stay memorable.
Extra Tips for Maximizing Your Perks
To get even more out of your hotel perks, here are a few extra tips:
Book during less busy times: Hotels are more likely to offer upgrades and extra perks during their off-peak seasons, so if your travel dates are flexible, consider booking in quieter months.
Join loyalty programs: Even when booking through a travel advisor, you can still earn points through loyalty programs like Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors. Let your advisor know about any loyalty memberships, and they’ll ensure your points are credited for future use.
Take advantage of partnerships: Some travel advisors, including those at Oscar and Olive Travel, are part of exclusive networks like Virtuoso. This means you can access additional perks like room upgrades, spa credits, or complimentary meals just by booking through an advisor.
Final Thoughts
Booking your hotel through a travel advisor is one of the smartest ways to elevate your travel experience. From early check-ins to resort credits, the perks you can unlock will not only enhance your stay but also offer incredible value. Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway or a business trip, a travel advisor can ensure you enjoy the best perks available.
If you’re ready to take advantage of these benefits on your next trip, reach out to Oscar and Olive Travel. We’ll handle the details so you can focus on enjoying the experience—along with all those extra perks. Safe travels!