12 Hotel Freebies to Help Save On Your Next Vacation

Traveling is an expensive endeavor. When I travel I search for hotels that offer package deals and great amenities, allowing more spending money for sightseeing and dining out. Plus, I seek out as many freebies as I can. Here’s a list of items that you can get free at hotels if you spend a little time researching before you even begin your voyage.

1. Discounts = Free Money

Ask, always, if there are any discounts available. Are you a member of AAA, a senior, a student, military? Is there a special for certain rooms or packages?  Many times you can save a significant amount of money simply by asking. You will never know if you don’t ask.

2. Coffee

If you are a coffee drinker, never stay where there is not a coffee maker. Never. With gourmet coffee shops charging more for coffee than gasoline, you could save a small fortune with an in-room coffee maker. Don’t be afraid to call room service for more coffee (or tea bags) as well as cream and sugar. They will keep brining it as long as you ask. You might even have some left over to bring home.

3. Newspapers

Local and national newspapers are almost always available for free. Oftentimes they are placed outside your door in the morning. However, you might have to go to lobby or inquire at the front desk.

4. Meals

Continental, buffet or sit-down, free breakfast for a family can add up quickly. Seek out a location that offers complimentary morning meals. Don’t forget to take a snack for later, like an apple or a muffin. Holiday Inn Express and Fairfield Inn & Suites both offer free breakfast at all of their US locations. More and more hotels are offering free hors d’oeuvres and snacks in the early afternoon for happy hour. Embassy Suites hosts a nightly complimentary Evening Reception with free beverages and light snacks. If you’re staying at a Double Tree, don’t forget your free cookies (they are incredible), and don’t be afraid to ask for extras.

5. Wi-Fi

It’s 2014! I refuse to stay in a hotel that does not provide free Wi-Fi. Honestly, I can’t believe that there are hotels that actually still charge for Internet access. Homewood Suites, Four Points by Sheraton and Quality Inn provide complimentary wireless Internet connection.

6. Upgrades

Ask for a complimentary upgrade when you check in. Nine times out of 10 this is successful for me. You might get a room with a better view, a room with a whirlpool tub or, if you are lucky, maybe even a top-of-the-line suite.

7. Parking 

This can be as much as $60 per day in some big cities. Yes, that says $60. Oftentimes, hotels offer package deals that include parking. Search on the hotel’s website (not a travel site) or call the hotel directly to inquire. I’ve had luck with this in Chicago and Toronto on several occasions. The hotel staff  might even offer you a free parking solution nearby if you ask.

8. Shuttle Service

Many hotels offer free transportation to local events, restaurants and attractions. Disney hotels provide complimentary bus service to their parks and shopping, and hotels in Las Vegas offer free airport transportation.

9. Toiletries

Why waste money on shampoo, conditioner, soap or lotion? Nearly all hotels provide these in your room. In case you “forget” other essentials, like toothpaste, many hotels will also provide additional personal care items if you request it at the front desk. By the way, those free travel bottles are perfect for gift baskets. Some of the designer brands even show up on eBay.

10. Airline Miles

If you are an airline junkie, like me, you will be sure to associate your favorite airline rewards number to your room bill to assist you in getting closer to a free flight.

11. Hotel Loyalty Rewards 

Earn free stays and perks at chain hotels like Marriott, Sheraton and Best Western. Remember that those hotel reward points are often eligible to be converted to airline miles later.

12. Property Facilities and Services

Business centers are useful places to print airline documents or directions. Skip the spa for a sauna in the property’s health club. Don’t forget to pick the concierge’s brain. They have a wealth of information and can fill you in on the area’s free attractions, and they might even have some free passes for shows or local attractions.

The bottom line is, if you’re already paying for a hotel, you might as well get free perks along the way!