Five Tips For Choosing Hotels

There are a number of ways to go about searching for the right hotel that fits your budget. But did you know that many lodging companies do not advertise their best deals on the Internet? It's true, especially if you're heading somewhere like Las Vegas. But for those of you looking to travel somewhere different, somewhere a little more interesting, here are a few tips that will help you size up the competition.

Roadside Deals

You've been driving all day, you're tired, and now it's time to look for somewhere to crash. But don't bust out those cellphone apps just yet (we'll get to that in minute). Roadside advertising is still a thing. And the way many hotels entice drive-by customers into their lobbies is by offering "last second," or impulse deals. These can be super inexpensive, to the tune of under $30.00 in some places!

Cellphone Apps

You're someone who likes to plan ahead, but not by too much. Cellphone apps, like Google's motel finder, just might be your ticket to finding a deal while traveling in unfamiliar territory. So be sure to download one if you haven't already before taking off into the night. Some other convenient features may include restaurant locators, full navigation to your chosen destination, and links to online coupons.

The Internet

For those who must plan every detail of their trip way ahead of time, the Internet may be the way to go. There are hundreds of travel agencies out there, and they all have websites. How do they entice customers to book through them? The old fashioned way; by offering great deals on lodging packages. Generally, you must book a few weeks in advance to get the best deals, but travel agencies are increasingly caving to customer demands for more booking flexibility and have answered by offering more last minute travel deals.

Brick and Mortar Businesses

Many booking agencies have fled their brick and mortar shops for a spot in Cyberspace. But many have not. And these companies are becoming more and more savvy when it comes to drawing clients into their offices. They do this the old fashioned way as well, but with a convenient catch; by offering great deals, but also by adding great perks to these deals, such as future booking discounts and a real live agent! I don't know about you but I prefer to conduct the majority of my business with a real person.

Coupons!

Coupons will never go out of style. I'm not much of a collector, but I know a deal when I see one. You can find coupons for specific hotels online, or you may receive them in the mail. Nevertheless, don't toss that annoying junk mail without perusing for deals on your favorite hotels first.