How To Find Cheap Hotels

If you want to travel and conserve money at the same time, it's important to know how to find cheap hotels. Although it may initially seem like a daunting idea, it's very possible to find inexpensive lodging in almost any city or town.

1. Look off the beaten path. The cheaper hotels are often ones that have been forgotten due to building up of towns or switching of main roads. Searching the yellow pages--or just driving through a town if you're looking at the last minute--is often the way to go.
2. Seek out locally owned hotels. Although they are getting fewer and more far between with commercial properties and franchises, small business owners are more likely to offer a deal to visitors. They aren't as accountable to a higher corporation or boss, and they have flexibility. Keep in mind that they are also competing in a tough market, so be an especially considerate guest when staying at these properties.
   
3. Plan a few months in advance if possible. If you have more time to look around for good deals, the hotels know that you have more time to do so. They are often more likely to give a deal to you if they know that your options are open.
4. Speak directly to a hotel manager or owner. It's rude and futile to argue with a lower level employee over room rates. They don't have the authority to change your room rate, in most cases. With the pressures that a typical hotel employee faces, they don't want to hear your complaining and griping over room rates. Instead, politely ask for the manager from the beginning, then begin to discuss your reservation.
5. Look on the Internet for discount rooms from hotels that have extra space available. Websites like Expedia, Priceline and Hotwire offer package deals and discounts on hotels. Yet, before booking a room on the Website, also call the hotel in person, to make sure that you can't get a better deal without using the discount Website.
6. Ask for specific discounts based on conventions or businesses for which you may be traveling. Conventions and even certain businesses can negotiate with hotels for a lower rate.