You would be surprised at the number of benefits you can get with an AAA membership. According to travel maestro, New York Times best-selling author and founder of the Travel Hacking Cartel, Chris Guillebeau, an AAA membership can go a long way.
Travelers can save an average of 5% – 10% at numerous hotels. Even on the occasions that you don’t save money, cancellations can be done until the day of arrival. This kind of flexibility can serve you in the long run.
Restock Your Minibar
Afraid of tucking into that minibar? We don't blame you. As tempting as those goodies appear lined up in your fridge, indulging in those treats comes with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, you can still use it, even if you don't consume the snacks and drinks. You can still use the space.
That's right. Just go to the local supermarket and buy your own snacks and sodas. You can fill up your hotel minibar until your heart's content. Just make sure that you separate accordingly. You don't want to accidentally drink that expensive bottle of Perrier soda water.
Use a Box of Matches as a Nail File
Who needs a trip to the nail salon when you have everything you need right in your hotel room? Not sure what to use? Try the free matchbox. Yep, you can use the rough side of the matchbox to file down your nails. You don't need to spend a fortune on a trip to the nail salon or even buy a nail file.
Just use your complimentary matchbox and have manicured nails at the snap of a finger. If it starts to lose its effect, you can just ask your hotel for another one!
Take Advantage of Credit Card Sign-Up Bonuses
If ever offered hotel credit cards, don't be put off by the steep sign-up prices. According to Matt Kepnes aka Nomadic Matt, the author of "How to Travel the World on $50 USD Per Day", this little trick can actually pay off. Even if signing up has a cost attached to it.
These accumulated sign-up bonuses can actually get you a week's worth of free accommodation. Yup, these little hotel credit perks can really take you from your average Joe traveler to a savvy jet-setter.
Stick to a Brand
One thing you can learn from our tips, you'll start to see that traveling perks are in large part due to customer loyalty and status. An easy way of racking up points for low cost is to pick the cheapest hotel out of a specific hotel chain, for example, Park Hyatt vs. Hyatt House or Hyatt Place, or one of the Hiltons and stick to that.
These places don't cost you an arm and a leg and offer loyalty programs, and since these systems are based on the number of nights and not dollars spent, getting a high status is pretty easy. Before you know it, you could be enjoying a complimentary dinner in an upgraded room at your favorite hotel.