How to Find Discounted Hotel Rates When You Travel

Finding discounted hotel rates can save a person some money for business travel or for vacation lodging. There are many different ways to find discount rates for hotels, including looking online or by checking with a local travel agent. Booking a hotel reservation in advance is the easiest way to guarantee the rate.

1. Start to search for discount hotels at least a month in advance. Room rates often change weekly, so if you book your room in advance you will lock in the best rate. Determine how many people are going with you so you know the number of rooms to book.


2. Check online to find discount hotel rates. Go to a search engine and type in “discount hotel rates.” Pick one of the websites that appear in the search results and follow the prompts to pull up a list of hotels in the area where you are going to stay. Review the different prices to find a hotel that has the best discount.


3. Contact a local travel agent for hotel discounts. Tell the agent the dates of your hotel stay and the area where you are staying. If you need plane reservations as well, the agent may be able to find you the best discount airline tickets. Find out the cost for using the agent’s services before you book your trip.


4. Call a hotel to find the lowest rate. If you have a lodging preference, by calling the hotel directly you may be able to obtain a discount. Book the room and save your confirmation number, or ask the hotel clerk to send confirmation to your email and then print the information so you have it with you.


5. Review your credit cards or club memberships to see if the benefits include discount hotels. Many memberships such as an auto club also provide discount hotel rates. You may need to book the hotel through the credit card company or on the membership website. Contact the organization you use to find out the best way to reserve your room at a discount price.