When booking a hotel, you’ll often see room rates advertised as per night or per stay. But what exactly is the difference between these two options and how do they impact the total cost of your reservation?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Per night rates are charged for each night booked, while per stay rates apply to the entire length of your reservation. Per stay rates usually offer savings for longer trips.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain key differences between per night and per stay hotel rates, when to choose each, and tips for getting the best deal on your multi-night hotel booking.
Defining Per Night vs Per Stay Hotel Rates
When booking a hotel, it’s important to understand the difference between per night and per stay rates. These rates determine how much you will be charged for your accommodation, and knowing the distinction can help you plan your budget more effectively.
Let’s take a closer look at what each term means:
Per night = Rate charged for each night booked
Per night rates are exactly what they sound like – the rate that is charged for each night you book at a hotel. This means that if you stay for three nights, you will be charged the per night rate multiplied by three.
Per night rates are commonly used by hotels to calculate the cost of your stay based on the number of nights you will be staying.
For example, if a hotel has a per night rate of $100 and you book a three-night stay, you would pay a total of $300. This rate is calculated by multiplying the per night rate ($100) by the number of nights stayed (3).
Per stay = Single rate for entire reservation
Per stay rates, on the other hand, are a single rate that covers your entire reservation, regardless of the number of nights you stay. This means that whether you stay for one night or ten nights, you will only be charged the per stay rate.
For instance, if a hotel has a per stay rate of $300 and you book a one-night stay, you would pay the same rate as if you were staying for three nights. This can be a more cost-effective option if you plan on staying for an extended period.
Per stay averages nightly rate over stay
One important thing to note about per stay rates is that they typically average out the nightly rate over the entire duration of your stay. This means that if you book a longer stay, the per stay rate may be lower than the per night rate.
For example, if a hotel has a per night rate of $100 and you book a seven-night stay, you would normally pay $700. However, if the hotel offers a per stay rate of $600, it would be more cost-effective to choose the per stay option.
It’s always a good idea to compare both per night and per stay rates when booking a hotel to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Keep in mind that rates can vary depending on the hotel, location, and time of year.
Be sure to check the hotel’s official website or reputable booking sites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
How Per Night and Per Stay Rates Work
When it comes to booking a hotel, you may have noticed that there are different types of rates available.
Two common options you’ll come across are per night rates and per stay rates. Understanding the difference between these two options can help you make an informed decision and find the best deal for your accommodation needs.
Per stay offers discount for longer stays
It’s worth noting that some hotels offer discounted per stay rates for longer stays. This means that the longer you stay, the lower the average nightly rate becomes.
For example, a hotel may charge $100 per night for a two-night stay, but offer a per stay rate of $400 for a week-long stay.
This can be a great option if you’re planning an extended vacation or business trip and want to save some money on your accommodation.
Some hotels offer choice of rate types
It’s important to mention that not all hotels offer both per night and per stay rates. Some hotels may only have one type of rate available, while others may offer a choice between the two.
It’s always a good idea to check with the hotel directly or visit their website to see what rate options are available.
When to Choose Per Night or Per Stay
Per night for shorter stays
When planning a short trip, it is often more convenient and cost-effective to choose a hotel with per night rates. These rates allow you to pay for each individual night of your stay, giving you the flexibility to book only the nights you need.
This is particularly useful if you are visiting a city for a weekend getaway or for a business trip that lasts only a few nights. With per night rates, you can easily adjust the duration of your stay without any extra charges.
Per stay for long trips (5+ nights)
If you are planning a longer trip, such as a week-long vacation or an extended work assignment, it may be more beneficial to choose a hotel with per stay rates. Per stay rates are often offered at a discounted price, making them a cost-effective option for stays of five nights or more.
By booking a per stay rate, you can enjoy the convenience of paying a fixed amount for your entire stay, regardless of its duration. This can save you money and simplify the booking process.
Compare costs for your stay length
Before making a decision, it is important to compare the costs of per night rates versus per stay rates for your specific stay length. Some hotels may offer better deals for shorter stays, while others may have more competitive rates for longer trips.
Take the time to research and compare different hotels in your desired location to find the best option that suits your budget and travel plans. Online travel platforms like Booking.com or Expedia.com can provide a comprehensive overview of hotel rates, allowing you to easily compare and make an informed decision.
Consider refund/change policies
When choosing between per night and per stay rates, it is essential to consider the refund and change policies of the hotel. Some hotels may offer more flexibility with per night rates, allowing you to cancel or modify your reservation without incurring significant fees.
On the other hand, hotels with per stay rates may have stricter policies, requiring you to pay for the entire stay even if you decide to leave earlier than planned. Carefully review the terms and conditions of each hotel before making a reservation to avoid any surprises or unexpected charges.
Getting the Best Hotel Deal
When it comes to booking a hotel, finding the best deal can make a significant difference in your overall travel experience. One common consideration is whether to opt for per night rates or per stay rates.
Understanding the difference between the two can help you make an informed decision and save money in the process.
Use per night for flexibility
Choosing a hotel with per night rates offers you more flexibility in terms of adjusting your travel plans.
If you have a last-minute change of schedule or decide to extend your stay, you can easily modify your reservation without incurring additional costs. This is particularly useful for travelers who value spontaneity or have uncertain itineraries.
Look for per stay discounts
On the other hand, some hotels offer per stay rates, which means you pay a fixed amount for the entire duration of your stay. This can be advantageous if you have a set travel itinerary and don’t anticipate any changes.
Per stay rates are often preferred by travelers who prefer to plan their trips well in advance and want to lock in a specific price for their entire stay.
When looking for per stay discounts, it’s essential to compare prices and check for any promotional offers or package deals. Many hotels offer discounted rates for longer stays or special rates during off-peak seasons. Taking advantage of these discounts can help you save a significant amount of money.
Negotiate group or corporate rates
If you are traveling as part of a group or for business purposes, it’s worth exploring group or corporate rates. Many hotels offer discounted rates for large groups or companies booking multiple rooms.
Negotiating these rates can result in substantial savings, especially if you are traveling with a large group or staying for an extended period.
Leverage loyalty program discounts
If you are a frequent traveler, joining a hotel loyalty program can provide you with additional discounts and perks. Many hotel chains offer loyalty programs that allow you to earn points for each stay, which can be redeemed for free nights or other benefits.
By leveraging these loyalty program discounts, you can enjoy exclusive rates and rewards that can further enhance your hotel experience.
Whether you choose per night rates or per stay rates, it’s essential to consider your travel preferences and plans. Remember to compare prices, check for discounts, and explore loyalty programs to ensure you get the best hotel deal possible.
Other Cost Factors to Consider
When comparing per night and per stay hotel rates, it’s important to take into account other cost factors that can significantly impact your overall expenses. These factors can vary depending on the hotel and location, so it’s crucial to be aware of them before making a decision.
Taxes and fees
One of the most important cost factors to consider when comparing hotel rates is the taxes and fees. These additional charges can vary from one hotel to another and can significantly increase the total amount you pay.
It’s always a good idea to check the fine print and see if there are any hidden fees or taxes that might not be included in the initial rate.
Meals and packages
Another factor to consider is whether the hotel rate includes meals or packages. Some hotels offer all-inclusive packages that include meals, while others charge separately for each meal. If you are planning on dining at the hotel, it’s essential to factor in the cost of meals when comparing per night and per stay rates.
Parking charges
Parking charges can also add up quickly, especially if you are staying at a hotel in a busy city or tourist destination. Many hotels charge a daily fee for parking, and this cost can significantly impact your overall expenses.
It’s worth checking if the hotel offers complimentary parking or if there are any nearby affordable parking options.
Incidentals like WiFi
When comparing hotel rates, don’t forget to consider incidentals such as WiFi charges. While some hotels offer complimentary WiFi, others may charge a daily or hourly fee for internet access. If you rely on a stable internet connection during your stay, it’s important to factor in the cost of WiFi when comparing per night and per stay rates.
Remember, each of these cost factors can vary from one hotel to another, so it’s essential to research and compare different options before making a decision. By considering all the additional expenses, you can get a more accurate picture of the total cost of your stay.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between per night and per stay hotel rates can help you make the best booking decisions.
While per night offers night-to-night flexibility, per stay averages out to a lower nightly rate for longer trips.
By comparing total costs carefully and negotiating the best deals, you can maximize savings on upcoming hotel stays no matter how long you’ll be traveling.
