Best available rates is a pricing model, commonly used by hotels to provide the lowest possible rate to a consumer on a given date. This involves hotels analysing the current market conditions such as demand in a certain area and time of stay, to price a room accordingly.

The Best Available Rate (BAR) is a dynamic pricing strategy used in the hospitality industry to offer the lowest publicly available price for a room at any given time, without any specific restrictions or prepayments. Unlike "discounted" rates that might require a non-refundable deposit or a 3-night minimum, BAR is the "base" flexible rate that adjusts in real-time based on demand, occupancy, and local competition. In 2026, approximately 65% of BAR prices are set by AI-driven revenue management systems that can change the rate multiple times a day. This strategy ensures transparency for the guest, as it is the "default" price they see on OTAs like Booking.com or the hotel's own website. For the hotel, BAR is a vital tool to maximize yield: during low-demand periods, the BAR drops to attract price-sensitive travelers, while during high-demand events (like a major concert), it scales upward to capture the maximum possible revenue from "last-minute" or uncommitted bookings.