How to save money on your next hotel booking

Travelling on a budget? Have youngsters in tow? Eating breakfast out at a restaurant can get expensive, and it can also take a big chunk of time out of your day. Why not avoid the hassle altogether and enjoy a hotel with a complimentary breakfast?

Do your research. Depending on where you will be travelling, there may be many hotels available. Finding a hotel with a free breakfast can be as easy as typing in “hotel with breakfast” into your search browser online.

Each hotel will likely have a slightly different setup. Some may offer a to-go breakfast that might include a piece of fruit and granola bar, others will have a large buffet with many hot and cold items available.

If you are looking to cut down on expenses, finding an all-you-can-eat buffet can really help. With a large breakfast, you can feel satisfied throughout the morning, and you may even opt for a smaller lunch. And don’t be shy. Take a few yogourts, apples or easy-to-transport items from the breakfast bar for a snack later on. You will be saving a trip out to a restaurant on each day of your stay, which can really add up.

Whether you are visiting out-of-town relatives or enjoying a trip to the coast, having breakfast available directly in your hotel can save you time. Without the extra stop, you can get an early start on the day and have more time available.

Be sure to check with the hotel to find out when breakfast is available. Most complimentary breakfasts are served starting at 6:00 or 7:00 AM. This is early enough for most travellers, but if you are looking to get to your activities a little sooner, see if the hotel can accommodate you. Even if hot items cannot be prepared early, they may have cereal, muffins or other items that do not need any preparation.

Not in the mood for do-it-yourself waffles or traditional breakfast buffet fare, booking a hotel with a kitchenette can give you the benefit of preparing your own meals. Often including a refrigerator, microwave and cooktop, you can bring food items from home or make a quick stop at a local grocery store. This option may provide the most flexibility, but if you are looking forward to a break from your everyday tasks, like cooking, you may opt for a complimentary breakfast or a bed-and-breakfast.

Bed-and-breakfasts can be another great option when you are looking to save on your morning meal. Often serving higher-scale fare than your traditional hotel breakfast, this option can give you the best of both worlds. You’ll enjoy great food and save a trip out. Depending on the location, you may find bed-and-breakfasts to be a little more expensive than traditional hotels. However, the atmosphere and cuisine may outweigh the cost.

With a full stomach, a little extra cash in your pocket and less hassle, booking a hotel with a free breakfast or kitchenette can help you get the most out of your vacation.