The internet is a great place to start planning your spring and summer getaway travels and select the accommodations most suited to your needs. When planning a trip, it’s tempting to book your stay through third-party platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, or Hotels.com because that’s what sometimes pops up when you search online. They’re convenient, fast, and make it easy to compare options. But what many travelers don’t realize is that booking directly with a hotel or bed and breakfast can often lead to a better overall experience and most times, save you money.
Planning your trip can save time and money by booking direct with B&Bs
It’s surprising how many guests actually say they booked through official websites, only to learn they were on a third-party website. With the expansion of internet sources, it’s confusing to be sure, but there are some important tips to remember when booking and researching online and why official websites are better choices for value, service, selection and direct contact.
One of the biggest advantages of booking direct is the level of service you receive. B&Bs and Hotels can prioritize guests who book through their own website or by phone and offer better rates overall. This can translate into small but meaningful perks—and even complimentary extras. It’s a subtle difference, but one that can make your stay feel more personalized and enjoyable. You can more likely choose the room and location of your room more easily.
Flexibility is another major factor. When you book through a third-party site, any changes or issues often have to go through that platform first, which can slow things down. Booking directly cuts out the middleman, making it much easier to modify your reservation, handle cancellations, or resolve problems quickly. If something goes wrong, you’re dealing directly with the people who can actually fix it rather than an impersonal online booking agent who may not even be in the United States. Often it’s confusing to find your reservation on the third party platform and ask for a cancellation or date change.
Loyalty programs also play a role. There may be rewards, points, or exclusive benefits—but these are usually only available when you book directly vs a third-party. If you’re a frequent traveler, those missed perks can add up quickly when using third-party services.
Pricing transparency is another area where direct booking can win. While third-party sites sometimes advertise lower rates, extra fees can appear at checkout. Booking directly often provides clearer pricing—and in many cases, bed and breakfasts and hotels will match or even beat third-party rates if you ask. You may also miss specials and add-on packages that are not available on third party sites. And, what you may not know is that all properties including bed and breakfasts and hotels pay a substantial fee to these websites of 15-30% which is often reflected on the rate through 3rd party websites. Most times, you’ll save money and be assured you get what you want when you book direct. It’s knowing how to distinguish between an official website and a third party website.
Simply find the property’s official Google or Tripadvisor listing and click on the highlighted listing for “website” or “official website” which will take you to your ultimate destination. There you’ll also find the direct property information where if you have questions, can call or email for more information. Third-party platforms may be a great option for planning a trip from scratch, but pay attention to where you are ultimately booking to know the website is official for the property you want to book.
If you want better service, more flexibility and a potentially more rewarding stay, booking directly with the property is the better choice. Even if you prioritize convenience and quick comparisons, third-party sites can be helpful research tools, but the best option is to book directly with a property. Sites like InnsofColorado.org and other state bed and breakfast association websites provide direct access to member listings, so using search terms such as “Colorado (or the state you are looking for listings) bed and breakfast association” offer great options to third party booking sites.
ABOUT BED & BREAKFAST INNKEEPERS OF COLORADO (BBIC): BBIC is an association of independent bed and breakfasts throughout the state of Colorado that adhere to high quality standards for guest comfort, safety and hospitality. One of the qualifications is that breakfast is included in the room rate offering a true bed and breakfast experience. Visit our website with links to the following B&BS: Holden House 1902 Bed & Breakfast Inn (Colorado Springs), Old Town Guesthouse B&B (Colorado Springs), Capitol Hill Mansion B&B Inn (Denver), Blue Lake Ranch (Durango), Gable House (Durango), Red Rosebud Bed & Breakfast (Florence), Frisco Inn on Galena (Frisco), Blue Skies Inn B&B (Manitou Springs), Rogers Inn the Pines (Monument), The Clipper Inn (Ouray), Bross Hotel Bed & Breakfast (Paonia), The Abriendo Inn (Pueblo), Arbor House inn B&B on the River (South Fork), Claremont Inn & Winery (Stratton), Pikes Peak Paradise (Woodland Park)
*This blog content was shared with the permission of the original author from Holden House 1902 Bed & Breakfast Inn.
