It goes through all of them sooner or later. For the inexperienced traveler, when he can find the cheapest motel rates, he is quite disappointed. Here’s how to get the most value for your money.
Try to make a reservation if possible. Due to certain events and times of the year, motels usually pay $50 for a night above $150 -$200 on occasion. Always be prepared for inflated rates and sold-out areas at athletic events, home games, concerts and the like.
1. If you are making a reservation in advance, determine how certain you are of your arrival time and destination city. This way, when the motel clerk asks if you would like to hold a courtesy or credit card your room, you will be able to answer quickly. If you’re not sure, take it up to the city and ask what your options are. It’s never fun to charge a motel room you won’t sleep in!
2. Check online. Contrary to popular belief, online reservations through large hotel websites are usually not the best deal. Fine print spelling; most charge a $25 new fee. Visit these sites to get ideas, as well as each motel or hotel’s website if they have one. This is where the online liar acts.
3. Get your price quote online, then call the hotel directly. Just ask the operator to check your room and find the cheapest motel in the area – don’t sound like you’ve already been sold. Check phone rates against internet rates; if the rates are better over the phone and you are ready, go ahead with the reservation. If you believe you have found a better deal through booking motel online, kindly thank the operator and end the conversation at Cic de Internet.
TIP: Don’t call a national line if they offer one. Call the direct line to the motel. Phone operators in national calls centers have no idea what kind of person the motel is.
4. We always ask what the room rates are for the “cheapest rooms”. Hotel and motel clerks will usually charge you for a larger room size without a discount. Some motels have smaller rooms or floors with no elevator access, they charge less. Ask if there are any additional fees and taxes or if this is the total price of the room.
TIP: Hospitality taxes are usually much higher than sales taxes.
5. Ask about discounts. Common motel rate discount examples are senior citizens, AARP, and motor clubs such as AAA. Ask what discounts are available that night.
TIP: Don’t be pushy. Just ask casually, and if discounts aren’t available (as they often aren’t), they don’t even sound serious. Check out personal checks.
6. Ask casually if the motel or hotel is privately owned or owned by the university. Generally, corporate businesses have stricter cleaning policies and it’s easier to get a refund if you’re sorry.
7. What do you need? If you’re sure you need internet access, breakfast or other luxury amenities, check in advance if the motel provides them.
If you don’t have a motel reservation and simply walk in, here are some valuable tips.
1. If the motel looks “iffy” or questionable for some reason, but you want to give it a shot, ask to see the room first. If the clerk doesn’t want you to stay in a motel room, chances are it’s not a good idea.
2. To get the cheapest motel rates, always, always remember that desk clerks are also people with feelings. Nothing gets a good motel rate like having a positive, friendly attitude. Kindly request the cheapest motel room available; demandit, and you’ll have a much better chance than the other guests!
