In the current climate, the travel industry has a lot of work to do when it comes to inclusivity, diversity and equity. While many industry leaders have pledged to make their businesses more diverse, there’s still a long way to go. Thankfully, there are many steps you can take to make your travel experience more inclusive and welcoming.

Cancellation policies

When traveling abroad, one must be very aware of cancellation policies for hotels and airlines. These policies vary widely depending on the hotel, airline, and cruise line. It is recommended to check the cancellation policy of each before making a reservation.

Booking in advance

Booking hotels in advance is a great way to guarantee you get the room of your choice, as well as get the best price. This method is especially useful during busy travel seasons when there are high demand for hotel rooms. Additionally, you will have a better chance of securing a room that meets your specific needs, which can save you a lot of money.

Alternative accommodations

Alternative accommodations offer a range of benefits that hotels can’t match. For example, they’re often more affordable and are perfect for long business trips. They can provide a homey neighborhood feel and offer more space, including a kitchen and multiple bedrooms. And they can be a safer, more controlled environment than hotels.

Off-season

Traveling off-season can give you a great deal of flexibility in your travel plans. Many attractions and hotels offer discounts during off-season months to entice travelers. Additionally, you’ll have fewer people to deal with, meaning a more intimate experience.

Cost

With the summer season fast approaching, cost of traveling and hotels is likely to rise. Rising labor and supply costs are pushing up prices, and higher consumer demand is compounding the situation. Last month, the average cost of a hotel stay was up 8.5 percent, and travel prices were up 11 percent. Even budget hotels are seeing price hikes, as many travelers are willing to pay more for a better experience.

Location

When you’re traveling, you may not realize how much your location affects the hotel prices you see online. Your mobile device’s GPS feature helps travel sites know your location and will present different prices based on where you are. For example, if you are near a hotel and another hotel offers the same price, the website will increase the price to compensate for your location.