How to Get the Best Prices for Hotels
- 1). Research all online hotel booking sites. These will include such sites as Expedia.com, Travelocity.com and Hotels.com, plus a host of other, smaller sites. Plug your destination, dates and any rebates your qualify for into these sites and take advantage of competitive pricing.
- 2). Check directly with the hotel of your choice. Specials may be available exclusively through the hotel. Check both online and by phone. A clerk will sometimes offer a different rate than one found online. If the rate is higher, inform the clerk of the lower online rate. He will have to match it.
- 3). Schedule around brisk travel periods. According to Thomas Wahl at hotelinsider.com, a busy travel season means higher rates. This often applies to weekend travel, as well. If possible, plan your trip during a quiet time of year.
- 4). Take advantage of last-minute deals and walk-in rates. Hotels are eager to sell their rooms, and if many of these rooms are available, the hotel may unload them at an attractive rate. For the hotel, it makes more sense to sell a room at a low rate than to let that room sit empty.
- 5). Avoid hotels at the center of popular areas. These hotels will generally be more expensive. By staying even a few blocks away and commuting if necessary, you could save yourself a bundle each night.
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