One of my favorite travel tips takes five minutes and costs nothing: send the hotel a friendly email before you arrive. I usually send 2-3 days before we arrive.
We’ve done this before special trips, and it’s gotten us treats, room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and other thoughtful extras. It doesn’t work every time, but sometimes a simple email makes a stay feel even more special.
You don’t need to be celebrating something to ask for a room preference. But if you’re traveling for an anniversary, birthday, or another occasion, tell them! Just keep it honest, friendly, and appreciative.
I usually start with the hotel’s concierge or guest relations team. Include your confirmation number so they can easily find your reservation, and mention your loyalty status if you have it. ChatGPT can help you find the contact information for the hotel.
Here’s an email you can copy, paste, and personalize:
Subject: Upcoming Stay | [Dates] | [Special Occasion, if applicable]
Hello [Hotel Name] Team,
My [husband/partner/family/friend] and I are looking forward to our stay from [check-in date] to [check-out date]!
We’re visiting for [reason for your trip or special occasion], and we’re especially excited about [something you’re looking forward to at the hotel].
If a complimentary room upgrade or a room with [a better view/a higher floor/your preferred feature] is available, we would be so grateful to be considered. I understand it depends on availability, but it would make our stay even more memorable.
[Optional: I’m a member of your loyalty program, with [status level], and always enjoy staying with [hotel brand].]
Thank you so much, we can’t wait to arrive!
Warmly,
[Your name]
Confirmation number: [number]
[Optional: Loyalty membership number]
My biggest tip? Ask nicely and keep your expectations flexible. An upgrade is never guaranteed, and breakfast may depend on your booking or loyalty benefits. We’ve also had stays where the extra was simply a sweet note or a little treat waiting in our room and those touches count, too.
Save this template for your next trip, and follow @the_traveling_tinsleys for more ways to make family travel easier and get more out of your stays.
