Tips for Finding Cheap Hotel Rates

Who enjoys paying tons of money for hotel stays? No one I know (including me). If you’re moving across the country, chances are you’ll have to spend at least one night in a hotel along the way. Those costs can really add up if you’re not careful. Don’t get me wrong, there’s definitely a fine line between hotels that feel “cheap” and those that offer cheap prices. Of course, today I'm talking about how to find NICE hotels with cheap rates.  

So, here are some things you can do find some of the best hotel rates along the way.

Getting the Cheapest Hotel Rates

Check comparison sites. You can take all afternoon comparing deal sites, or you can go to a website that does the comparing for you. Sites like Kayak.com will check hundreds of hotel sites for the best rates. But don’t book the best deal just yet! Keep those rates in mind as you search for the cheapest hotel rates.

Call Directly. Don’t call the hotels 800 number, call the local hotel number. Ask for their best rate. Over the phone you can mention any club cards (like AAA) or discounts (like military) that you may qualify for. Don’t be afraid to ask for a discount.

Sign up for hotel promotional emails. If you have a hotel chain you prefer, sign up to get their emails. They will send out promotions and discounts via email.

Become a loyalty member. Many hotel chains offer loyalty programs. While you may have to pay full-price for a room, you can earn free nights or upgrades in the process.

Check your credit card company. Many credit card companies have partnerships with hotel chains that will get you great rates. My mother has an American Express card, and she gets great hotel rates by booking through AmEx and using her card. Check with your credit card company to see if you have any perks.

Check with the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. Do a quick search online for the Convention and Visitors Bureau in the town you are traveling to. Check online or call to see if they know of any hotel discounts. The CVB’s job is to get visitors to come to town, so they will help you find a great deal.

Check Escape sites. If you are a little more flexible with your travel, check sites like Groupon Getaways and LivingSocial Escapes that offer limited-time deals. You may only have one hotel offering in your city of choice, but often that one hotel will be offering awesome deals. I booked a hotel through a site like this for half price!