
- Avg. commission
- Varies
- Cookie window
- 7 days
- Cost to join
- Free
Find cheap hotels and discounts when you book on hotels.com. Compare hotel deals, offers and read unbiased reviews on hotels. Earn 5.5% commission plus performance incentives for each hotel booking that becomes a completed stay. We do not pay commission on packages, flights or any other line of business except completed hotel stays. 7-day action referral period!
Commission rates and terms
Sign up free to see Hotels.com's full rate card, cookie window and tracking links.
About Hotels.com
History
Hotels.com, established in 1991 as the Hotel Reservations Network, rebranded in 2002 to better reflect its core service of online hotel bookings. As part of the Expedia Group, it has grown into a leading platform for travelers worldwide.
Product Types
Hotels.com offers a vast array of accommodations, including hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, and bed & breakfasts, catering to diverse traveler needs.
Target Audience
The platform serves a global audience, from budget-conscious travelers seeking affordable stays to luxury seekers desiring premium accommodations.
Unique Selling Points
With over 500,000 properties in more than 200 countries, a user-friendly interface, and a rewarding loyalty program, Hotels.com stands out in the online travel booking industry.
Hotels.com Affiliate Program
Commission Structure
Through Sovrn Commerce, affiliates can earn competitive commissions on bookings made via their referral links. Specific rates are accessible upon joining the program.
Cookie Duration
The cookie duration for Hotels.com's affiliate program through Sovrn Commerce is 7 days, allowing affiliates to earn commissions on bookings made within this period after a user clicks their link.
Special Features
- Real-time reporting to monitor performance and optimize strategies.
- Dedicated affiliate support to assist with any queries or challenges.
Product Categories
Main Categories
Popular Products
Unique Products
Hotels.com offers unique accommodations such as boutique hotels, historic inns, and eco-friendly lodgings, providing travelers with distinctive experiences.
Marketing Tips
Content Ideas
- Create destination guides highlighting top accommodations available on Hotels.com.
- Share travel itineraries that incorporate stays booked through Hotels.com.
- Review unique properties listed on Hotels.com to attract niche audiences.
Promotional Strategies
- Leverage seasonal promotions and exclusive deals offered by Hotels.com to entice bookings.
- Utilize social media platforms to showcase featured properties and special offers.
- Incorporate Hotels.com affiliate links into travel-related content to provide value to readers.
Best Practices
- Ensure transparency by disclosing affiliate partnerships to maintain trust with your audience.
- Regularly update content to reflect current deals and promotions.
- Analyze performance metrics to identify successful strategies and areas for improvement.
Target Audience
Ideal Customer
Travelers seeking convenient and reliable accommodation booking options, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury stays, across various destinations worldwide.
Suitable Affiliates
Seasonal Trends
Peak Periods
Promotional Opportunities
- Holiday travel deals during Christmas and New Year.
- Special offers for summer vacations.
- Discounts for last-minute bookings during off-peak seasons.
Compliance and Policies
Key Rules
- Affiliates must adhere to Hotels.com's brand guidelines when promoting their services.
- All promotional content should accurately represent Hotels.com's offerings without misleading information.
- Affiliates are required to comply with all applicable laws and regulations in their promotional activities.
Restricted Methods
- Use of Hotels.com's trademarks in domain names without permission.
- Engaging in paid search campaigns that bid on Hotels.com's branded terms.
- Utilizing spam or unsolicited emails to promote Hotels.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I join Hotels.com's affiliate program?
You can join Hotels.com's affiliate program exclusively through Sovrn Commerce. Simply sign up for a free Sovrn account, search for Hotels.com in the merchant directory, and apply to their program. Once approved, you'll have access to links, banners, and promotional materials.
What commission rates does Hotels.com offer?
Commission rates vary by product category and promotional periods. You can view detailed commission information for Hotels.com in your Sovrn dashboard after joining their program. Sovrn partners often receive competitive rates and exclusive commission boosts.
How often does Hotels.com pay commissions through Sovrn?
Payments are processed through Sovrn's standard payment schedule. Most affiliates receive monthly payments once they reach the minimum payout threshold. Check your Sovrn account for specific payment terms and schedules.
What is Hotels.com's cookie duration?
Cookie duration varies by merchant and is clearly displayed in your Sovrn dashboard. This determines how long after a customer clicks your link you'll receive credit for their purchase. Longer cookie durations mean more earning potential through Sovrn.
Can I promote Hotels.com on social media?
Yes, most merchants allow social media promotion through Sovrn, but specific guidelines apply. Check Hotels.com's program terms in your Sovrn dashboard for detailed social media policies, including any restrictions on paid advertising or specific platforms.
What promotional materials does Hotels.com provide?
Through Sovrn, you'll have access to a variety of promotional tools including text links, product galleries, price comparison tools, link optimization and more. New tools are regularly updated in your Sovrn dashboard to help maximize your conversions.
Are there any restrictions on how I can promote Hotels.com?
Yes, all merchants have specific terms and conditions within Sovrn's platform. Common restrictions may include trademark bidding limitations, coupon site policies, and email marketing guidelines. Review the full program terms in your Sovrn account before promoting.
How do I track my performance with Hotels.com?
Sovrn provides comprehensive reporting tools in your dashboard. Track clicks, conversions, earnings, and conversion rates in real-time. You can also set up custom reports using our API to track Hotels.com campaigns effectively.
Does Hotels.com offer exclusive deals for affiliates?
Many merchants provide exclusive offers, early access to sales, and special commission rates for their Sovrn affiliate partners. Check the 'Promotions' section in your Sovrn dashboard regularly for Hotels.com's latest affiliate-exclusive opportunities.
What support is available for Hotels.com affiliates?
Sovrn provides dedicated affiliate support including account management, optimization tips, and technical assistance. You can access help documentation, contact support, and connect with other affiliates through the Sovrn platform.
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