Finding the Best Deals on Hotel Rooms

Making Your Travels Cheaper

Travel can be an expensive proposition. The travel industry, and hotels in particular, took a deep hit in the pocketbook following the events of 9/11/01. After travel in both the business and private sectors rebounded, hotels were anxious to regain the lost profits of years past. Consequently, consumers have seen guestroom rates soar by the highest percentage increases in history, making 2005 and projections for 2006 room revenue at their highest levels ever.

So what can the average traveler do about it?

Plenty!  Here are seven ways to reduce the rate of your guestrooom.

1)Choose the type of accommodation you prefer. Large hotel chains with a recognizable “flag” have much more leeway in rates than a small bed and breakfast. The larger hotels also offer varying rates dependant on season, day of week, etc. where the small mom and pop organizations adhere to one, or two at the most, rates throughout the year.

2)Larger hotels practice revenue management. This means that a room listed at $100 for next Thursday may increase to $120 in the matter of a day, based on how much demand for rooms they are predicting. If occupancy continues to increase, so will the room rate. Making a reservation well in advance of your travel dates will usually yield the lowest rate. When making a reservation for pleasure, always check rates for different days of the week. Determine whether your hotel is primarily a “business” hotel or “leisure” hotel. The business hotel will be full during the week while the leisure property typically fills up on weekends only.

3)Check several online sites, starting with the hotel’s site first. Some chains, such as Hilton Hotels Corp., require their franchisees to list the lowest available rate directly on their branded website. If the hotel is an independent, you may find lower rates on “opaque” websites such as hotels.com.