Booking.com: Hotels and more

The Booking.com app is a popular, all-in-one travel platform that allows you to book accommodations, flights, rental cars, and airport taxis directly from your smartphone. It is widely used because it often offers “Mobile-only deals” (at least 10% off) that aren’t available on the desktop website.

Core Features
Stays: Access to millions of hotels, apartments, vacation homes, and even unique stays like treehouses.

Genius Loyalty Program: As you book more, you unlock levels that give you lifetime discounts (10%–20%) and perks like free breakfast or room upgrades.

Manage on the Go: View your confirmation offline, chat directly with the property, or cancel/modify your booking without needing a computer.

Paperless Check-in: Most properties allow you to simply show the digital confirmation in the app instead of printing anything.

How to Use the App: Step-by-Step
1. Search & Filter
Enter Details: Open the app and enter your destination, dates, and the number of people/rooms.

Use Filters: Tap “Sort & Filter” to narrow down results by your budget, review score (aim for 8.0+), “Free Cancellation,” or specific amenities like a pool or free WiFi.

Map View: Tap the map icon to see where hotels are located in relation to the city center or public transport.

2. Review & Choose
Check Reviews: Scroll down to read verified guest reviews. Look for comments on noise, WiFi speed, and cleanliness.

Choose Room: Tap “Select Room” or “See Availability.” You may see different prices for the same room—usually, the cheaper one is non-refundable, while the slightly more expensive one offers free cancellation.

3. Secure the Booking
Enter Info: Provide your name and email. If you’re logged into an account, this will autofill.

Payment: Some properties require a credit card to “guarantee” the booking, even if you choose to “Pay at the Property.” Others may offer “No Credit Card Needed” options (you can filter for this).

Finalize: Tap “Book Now” or “Reserve.” You will immediately receive a confirmation in the app and via email.

4. Manage Your Stay
Communication: Use the “Messages” tab to ask the host about late check-in or specific requests.

Access Documents: Under the “Bookings” tab, you’ll find your confirmation number, QR codes, and the property’s address.

A Few Pro-Tips
Look for the Mobile-only Badge: This can save you a significant amount of money compared to booking on a laptop.

Download Offline Maps: Within the app, you can often access a map of your hotel’s area even if you lose data or WiFi while traveling.

Check the “Fine Print”: Always check for extra costs like “City Tax” or “Cleaning Fees,” which are sometimes paid separately at the property.