Expedia-owned discount hotel service Hotwire has launched in the UK.

Ten years after its initial launch in the United States, the service – which is aimed at British holidaymakers looking to bag a bargain break – will go live today.

More than 40 per cent of hotel rooms are left vacant every night; Hotwire specialises in selling these rooms for greatly reduced rates of as low as half price.

“We are proud to announce the launch of Hotwire in the UK, bringing British customers the best hotel deals from some of the most trusted hotel brands in the world,” said Clem Bason, president of Hotwire.

“Customers are looking for new ways to save when booking a holiday or short break. At Hotwire that’s what we do.

“We work hard every day to bring unsold rooms to consumers at deeply discounted prices ensuring that customers continue to have great travel experiences, they just pay less for them.”

With Hot Rates available in more than 2,450 cities worldwide, the UK launch of Hotwire promises to make travel more affordable for Brits whether holidaying in the UK or an exotic location further afield.

How Hotwire works

When hotels have unsold rooms, they use Hotwire to fill them.

Travellers wishing to take advantage of Hotwire Hot Rates are given information about the hotel’s star rating, amenities, and neighbourhood and customer reviews of the hotel. 

However, they are not given the name of the property until the night is booked.