How to Save Money on Booking.com: Tips and Updates

Optimising your budget is a primary challenge when planning travel. As one of the most popular platforms available, Booking.com offers a wide selection of hotels, flights, car rentals, and cruise tours. The platform's discount systems and loyalty programmes allow travellers to significantly reduce their expenses. ## The Genius Programme: More Travel, More Savings The Booking.com loyalty programme, Genius, offers automatic discounts and perks to registered users. The programme consists of three levels: the first level provides a 10% discount on selected properties. The second level, unlocked after five bookings within two years, offers discounts of up to 15%. The third level activates after 15 bookings, providing up to 20% savings on hotels and a 15% discount on car rentals. It is important to note that Genius discounts are applied automatically to the price when you are logged into your account. ## Cruises and Special Promotions For those who prefer sea travel, the platform offers special terms. On cruises booked by 31 December 2027, users will receive a bonus ranging from $25 to $1,000, depending on the booking value. This credit can be spent on board for services such as restaurants, spa treatments, and cocktails. Additionally, a flexible payment system is in place: you can book a cruise with a deposit of just $25, giving users extra time for planning. ## Booking Tips When using Booking.com, it is important to consider a few nuances: 1. Check discount code compatibility: Often, it is not possible to use additional promotional codes on properties that are already discounted. 2. Activate your Genius status: Always ensure you are logged into your account so the system can automatically calculate your Genius discounts. 3. Use the app: Booking via the mobile application is often linked to more bonuses or promotional offers. 4. Car rentals: Look for the blue 'Genius' tag in car rental listings, which signifies an additional 10% discount. While public discount codes on Booking.com are primarily focused on hotels, the platform's seasonal booking page often offers discounts based on specific destinations. For frequent travellers, the Genius Rewards Visa credit card allows for the accumulation of additional points, further reducing future travel costs.