The federal government spends more than $2.5 billion on hotels every year. The Federal Travel Regulations (FTR) states that one lodging program, FedRooms must be given first consideration when Government travelers book lodging for government business travel.
FedRooms is the official government-wide, government-sponsored lodging program, in support of the President’s Management Agenda simplifying the lodging process for federal travelers and saving the government money.
FedRooms negotiates hotel rates on behalf of the federal government in markets where government travelers need to stay. Hotels in the FedRooms program are FEMA and ADA compliant, they have at least a two star Mobil Travel Guide or AAA rating, they accept government credit cards and other forms of payment and some FedRooms hotels have last room availability.
FedRooms guarantee that:
- Rates are at or below per diem
- Travelers can cancel a reservation until 4pm on the day of arrival without penalty
- No hidden costs or penalties are attached to the Rate
- No early departure fees for travelers who check out early
Government travelers are used to looking for a hotel at the government rate but should ask for the FedRooms rate because the FedRooms rate and the “government” rate are not always the same.
FedRooms Rates are negotiated specifically for federal government travelers.
- Hotels must agree to the program terms & conditions
- FedRooms will assist in holding hotels accountable
“Government” rates are unmanaged, and are determined by each hotel
- 15 percent of “government” rates are over per diem
- May have hidden fees and cancellation policies that add up to a bigger bill at checkout
As you can see there are several benefits to requesting FedRooms rate when booking your hotel.
By: Crystal Horner
Disclaimer: The contents of this message are mine personally and do not reflect any position of the Government or my agency.