Top Budget Travel Tips to $Category

If they don’t have any rooms at all there may be a real problem. If they have more expensive rooms or suites available, demand to be upgraded at no additional cost.
If the chain has other locations nearby, ask if any of their other locations are available.
Ask them to call to see if they can get you a room at one of their competitors. Even if the rates are higher the original hotel should pay the difference.
If no rooms are available in town, find out if the chain's other properties in nearby towns have rooms available. If you don’t have a car, ask for transportation to that location at their expense.
Never just give up ! Find out if they will have rooms available for you tomorrow and get them to guarantee one.
If the problem is not your fault, ask to be compensated.
Always keep receipts of any costs incurred due to their failure to provide a room for you.
This is a major customer service issue. Look for assistance in our Customer Service Issues section.

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Make sure that the room rate is the same that was promised.
Verify any extra charges that may be added to the bill for "special services".
Assure that any discounts, coupons or VIP program credits will be applied to your bill.
Confirm that any special requests that you made have been noted and will be honored.
Determine scheduled times for amenities such as meals, cocktails, shuttles, pool hours, room service or concierge assistance. For those services that are complimentary, see if you need coupons or vouchers as currency.
Always be aware of checkout time.

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Your confirmation number and rate information.
A picture I.D. may be requires to check in.
The credit card that you will be using for the room.
Many hotels require the license plate numbers of guest's cars. If using a rental car, lot, jot down the plate number on the way in.
Any coupons, membership cards or association information that entitles you to a discount.
Frequent flier, frequent guest or VIP membership program information to assure that you'll get credit for your stay.

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Yes sometimes. First see what the hotel has available for you and ask about any upgrade specials. Hotels sell out of certain categories of rooms but also often have too many of a certain kind available. There could be a big savings opportunity for you. A suite that was more than you wanted to spend, could be a just few dollars more.

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Cards with the hotel’s name and address for you and anyone else in your party. These can be especially helpful if you are unfamiliar with the area or language. Also, many hotel chains have multiple locations, with the same basic name, scattered around an area. Make sure any children have them, in the event they become lost.

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Be sure you are out by the designated check out time to avoid additional charges.
Be aware of everything that the hotel charges extra for and share that knowledge with everyone in your party.
Know about any local surcharges and taxes.
Find out about any local or long distance calling charges.
Remember that room service and convenience of the minibar has a price.
Watch out for "In room" movie charges. You may be billed for some you didn't watch.

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If you think there may be a problem, ask if there is a grace period or any other option available. Often hotels will offer later checkout times as a convenience to their better customers. They tend to be more flexible if you plan for it up front. Remember that there may be a charge for this service, however.

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