Posts Tagged ‘cheap hotels’
Finding Cheap Hotels: 8 Tips
The cost of your lodging is going to be the most expensive thing you purchase on a vacation after airfare. If you can find a better hotel deal, you will be able to splurge more on other aspects of the vacation. Start with the basics when you are looking for a good rate.
1) Ask the hotel
Just asking the hotel directly can easily get you hundreds of dollars in savings. Ask about promotions, deals for AAA members or seniors, and how the hotel would recommend saving money. Especially in a recession, hotels want your business. If you tell them you need a better deal, they may just work with you to make that happen.
2) Shop around and track quotes
The Internet makes it very easy to track and compare quotes from a number of hotels. You can check sites like Hotels.com and Expedia.com daily, and you can even set up alerts for when the price of a hotel drops below your budget. If you’re not willing to do this, consider contacting a travel agent. Often, the fees you pay to book through an agent will be only a fraction of your savings.
3) Make price a priority
If you are flexible on all points but price, you will save the most money. Don’t get set on a specific hotel property. Instead, set your budget, and make this your only criterion. You may have to rough it a little more than you would like. But, its worth it when you can enjoy a better dinner each evening.
4) Skip the 800 number
Look for the contact information on a hotel’s actual site. The 800 number that you may be using through the hotel owner (aka Hilton, Hyatt, etc) is often to an agent who does not have the most information. You can call the branch of the hotel to speak with a local manager and usually find a better deal.
5) Book last minute
If you’re willing to wait until the last minute to book you’ll find the prices go down. This is only really a priority if you are driving to your destination. Otherwise, you may find yourself very stressed come the day before your expensive plane flight. Making your booking options really flexible helps you keep price as the #1 criterion.
6) Celebrate flexibility
Don’t go when you want to go, go when the price is low. You may have to travel in the off season to do this. Most locations have a lot of advantages in the off-season though, not the least of which is less crowds and cheaper air fare.
7) Book your hotel with your plane ticket or rental car
Travel agents and booking agents are happy to offer incentives for you to package your purchase. These companies have usually negotiated these deals with the hotel. They have done the legwork for you, and you can take advantage of this if you are willing to book all at once.
Buy local
Avoiding large hotel chains can save you money and add charm to your trip. You may find better service and accommodations at a local inn than you will at a large hotel. Read reviews online to determine which location is most in line with what you need. Remember: hostels are a great option for budget travelers.
