Travel Tip: Getting the Best Rate for Hotel Reservations [ 1:00 ] Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

Next time you make a hotel reservation put in a little extra work and you’ll get farther than the “guaranteed” lowest rates.

I recently did an experiment where I checked weekend hotels rates in four cities using Hotels.com, the hotel’s own website, the hotel’s reservation desk, and speaking directly to either the manager or director of sales.

Every time, I talked to a manager or director of sales, I was able to negotiate the rate.

Repeat business is valued and frequent visitors landed an even lower rate.

Don’t call a hotel’s 800 number to make reservations.

Those calls go direct to a national center with limited ability to provide discounted rates.

Call the hotel’s direct line, and instead of asking for the reservation department ask to speak to a manager on duty or a director of sales.

Remember to ask if your hotel or resort can throw in a ski lift pass or extra night—they often do whatever it takes to get your business.

For more information on hotels, check out our Hotel & Accommodations section.

You can find more tips in our Travel Tips section.