1. Overview of Priceline Bidding Experiment
This article explores a 13-night experiment using Priceline’s “name your price” bidding for hotel accommodations. You’ll learn about the basics of Priceline, the outcomes of the experiment, and tips for maximizing savings.
2. Priceline Basics
For those unfamiliar with Priceline, the “name your price” bidding allows users to propose a nightly rate for accommodations at unnamed hotels within a specified location and star rating. The star rating denotes the quality and amenities of the hotel, ranging from basic one- or two-star offerings to more luxurious three- to five-star properties, which often include restaurants and recreational facilities.
Understanding the bidding process is essential: only after a successful bid will you learn the name and address of your hotel, and the purchase is immediately charged to your credit card, becoming non-refundable. Although this system may present risks, savvy bidders can often secure substantial discounts compared to standard rates. However, it’s common to fall into pitfalls that could negate potential savings.
3. The Experiment
I embarked on a combined business and leisure trip, successfully securing Priceline bids for 13 of the 20 nights spent traveling through the western United States. The destinations varied widely, from the vibrant streets of San Francisco to the quieter surroundings of Clinton, Oklahoma.
The primary goal was to document and analyze the effectiveness of Priceline bidding across different geographical settings within a focused two-week timeframe.
4. The Results
After placing my bids, the total prospective cost for the 13 nights amounted to $1,785, averaging $137 per night based on published rates. Ultimately, I paid $1,155, or roughly $89 per night, resulting in a 35% savings of $630 ($48/night).
This substantial savings allowed me to allocate funds for various travel-related expenses, including parking, fuel, and entry fees. While I enjoyed the financial benefits, certain trade-offs were evident.
It’s crucial to note that while choosing a zone was possible, the exact hotel location was not. Thus, had I opted for traditional hotel selection methods, I might have selected different accommodations. Nonetheless, most stays were satisfactory, with clean rooms and safe environments located near key attractions.
In instances where bids were rejected, Priceline does allow for rebidding; however, you must adjust the star level or geographic zone to do so. If identical parameters are maintained, a 24-hour waiting period is mandatory before retrying.
Keep in mind that individual experiences may differ significantly. The aim here is not to critique Priceline as a platform but rather to showcase the variability in savings that can occur during such experiments. Some nights offered exceptional value, while others may not have been as beneficial.
