How to Find Cheap Hotel Rates

Booking a hotel room is one of the most expensive aspects of traveling. Fortunately, it is possible to find cheap hotel rates and save a lot of money if you know what you are doing. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, a little time spent online or on the phone before you go can really pay off.

• Research your destination. There are many different options for saving money on hotel rates depending on where and when you are traveling. If you know where you want to go and are flexible about the timing, spend a little time online and find out when the peak tourist seasons are for that location. If you are willing to travel in the off-season, you can save a tremendous amount of money. This is especially true for places like Disney World and other tourist destinations. During the slower seasons, they not only reduce hotel room rates but usually have other deals going on to entice travelers.


• Shop around before you book a hotel room. There are plenty of websites online that promise to help you find cheap hotel rates. Try out a few different ones and see where the cheapest rates are. Read everything and make sure that you understand the terms and are dealing with a reputable site before you book anything.


• Check with the hotels themselves. Before you book a room online, check the website of the hotel chain. They usually have Internet-only deals that may not be available to the discount travel sites. Also, call the customer service number for the hotel you would like to stay at and ask about any special discounts or room rates that might be available during the time that you are traveling. Some hotels offer discounts for auto club members, senior citizens and military personnel. These may not be advertised and you will never know unless you ask.