Priceline Vets-Got Any Hints for Success?

[keishashadow]

Trying to get a Resort class room for June in WDW area - failing miserably.

1st time trying to use Priceline. Is there a "secret" to success?

They're suggesting over $200/night bid. I went very low w/first attempt but, wonder what % usually works.

Also, do you generally have better luck closer to the arrival date?

TIA

 

[Lewisc]

Look at biddingfortravel.com and betterbidding.com for ideas. DON'T POST AT BFT unless you've done your homework first.

Saying you went very low without telling us what you bid really isn't giving us any information. The Wyndham hotel recently changed hands and I'm not sure if they'll still be the low priced hotel. Winning bids seem to be $85-$125 so if you're bidding below $80 you're probably wasting your time. What are the rates at the Hilton and Gaylord Palms for your dates?

 

[keishashadow]

Thanks, never heard of those sites - off to check them out.

I unsuccessfully bid slightly over $100. Don't remember the specifics, but the Deluxes' rates began around $180 for the end of June...thought slightly over 50% might do the trick.

Hate to go higher until the AP's/codes come out for WDW resorts.

 

[Lewisc]

Thanks, never heard of those sites - off to check them out.

I unsuccessfully bid slightly over $100. Don't remember the specifics, but the Deluxes' rates began around $180 for the end of June...thought slightly over 50% might do the trick.

Hate to go higher until the AP's/codes come out for WDW resorts.

I wouldn't go much higher than 50%. Book a cancellable backup reservation and try later. Some hotels release rooms closer to your date. GP is a convention hotel and may dump rooms that were blocked by a convention.

 

[keishashadow]

Priceline's fees are a consideration also for a 1 day stay...added nearly 20% to bid I was going to place today. Decided to watch the trends then decide. Thanks again for the sites.

 

[kilee]

Those sites are the best for doing some research w/ priceline. I, personally, think it's too early for there to be any great June deals on priceline yet. I've found that the longer I can hold out on bidding, that the better deal I get. I would personally wait until at least 8 weeks out- but possibly as close as 4 weeks.
A lot of hotels are known to not release inventory to priceline until a month or so out. So, this will affect what you get for the price.

 

[JenniferW]

I have found mixed results with Priceline. Read BFT several times through, check and see the best deals you can get without using Priceline and then make sure you are fine with any of the choices (remembering they add resort fees, etc).

I have booked things last minute as well as far ahead so I guess it just depends on the inventory at the time.

Jenn

 

[keishashadow]

Thanks, again, to all...will lurk until 1-1/2 months out - hoping that the properties decide to move some empty rooms!

 

[Lewisc]

Priceline's fees are a consideration also for a 1 day stay...added nearly 20% to bid I was going to place today. Decided to watch the trends then decide. Thanks again for the sites.

The 20% is PL fees and taxes. Remember you'll also have to pay a resort fee and some resorts charge for parking.

For one night a PL resort might not be worth it.