Are hotels cheaper if you book direct? (7 25 25)

Author

Sally McDonald
July 25, 2025

💵 Today’s Top Stories
Hotel booking

You and I like finding a deal on a hotel as much as Clark. (OK, let’s be honest, almost as much.) Does that mean we should book through the hotel or through a travel site like Priceline? Read more.

iPhone

The iPhone is a super computer with incredible but overwhelming features. Here’s how to make your device easier to use, including how to speed up charging and block unwanted callers. Read more.

Southwest Airlines airplane

Buckle up, Southwest Airlines fans. There are even more changes coming for your favorite airline. Here’s everything you need to know. Read more.

Music streaming

Enjoy listening to music while you work, work out, drive or anything else? Check out this list of free music sites. Read more.

Rent to own

Rent-to-own marketing often sounds financially appetizing, especially if money is tight. But it’s also a way to get yourself into much more financial trouble, Clark explains. Read more.

🎉 The Best Can't-Miss Deals Today

From credit cards to phone plans to streaming services and more, here are the top limited-time deals as of July 25, 2025.

Credit Cards

Phone Plans

  • AT&T: New unlimited plan for seniors starts at $35 per line with two lines.

  • RedPocket Mobile: Get 50% off your first month of service or two free months with an annual plan (new customers only).

  • Tello Mobile: For a limited time, new customers can join Tello Mobile and get an unlimited plan for $15/month for the first three months. Compared to the plan’s regular rates, this deal will save you $10/month— $30 total! Learn more.

📊 Stat of the Day

🚘️ $1.1 billion: The amount of money that tariffs cost General Motors during Q2. GM expects tariff impacts to worsen in Q3 and may lose $5 billion on tariffs this year. Stellantis reported combined Q1 and Q2 losses of about $350 million due to tariffs.

💰️ Deal Alert: Today’s Top Deals
Apple iPhone charging cables
Wayfair
🎙️ Podcast

Want to ask a question or share your opinion on the podcast? Tell us! Submit an Ask Clark or Clark Stinks post for a chance to have it covered on the podcast.

☎️ Need Money Help?

The Team Clark Consumer Action Center is a free helpline that can help you navigate your money questions. Call 636-492-5275. Visit clark.com/cac for more information.

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