Here is a short list of 6 steps that can save you a bundle on your traveling lodging costs.
First, search the internet or your favorite travel sites.
You want an idea of what costs you are likely to experience.
In reality, saving costs will take an investment in your time and energy.
The savings might be significant.
Keep a list of the 3, 4, 5, or whatever number of properties that meet your needs = cost range, amenities, age, location, etc.
Track the online rates for those selected properties from several sources.
Amazingly, the may vary widely.
The more you know, the better deal you may make.
Second, visit the property websites.
You'll know better which ones are good candidates from quality, cost, and all the other details you seek.
Plus, some sites will let you know of website specials and other possible deals.
Record the rates and specials you find on their website.
If the site is unusually good, make a note to mention that the person you speak with.
One simple example our hotel's offering multi night online booking specials is at the reservations page of our hotel website.
Enter the longest number of days you want to view when entering your basic stay information.
The link is in the resources area herein.
Third, if you are able, schedule your trip to stay whichever nights are the slowest for any particular property.
Commercial hotels are usually busiest Monday through Thursday.
Tourist properties may be slower those same days of the week.
Seasonal timing is also a great way to save big bucks.
Your awareness of this point may require talking to the hotel itself.
Fourth, call or email the hotel directly.
Use the big online travel sites for research primarily at this point.
If you can talk to either the reservations manager, the front desk manager, you may be able to learn the lowest cost dates to travel and any specials that may be quietly available.
Always ask for the best rates available.
If you think the property sells rooms via either Priceline, Hotwire, Obritz, or Expedia's prepaid net rate program, ask the reservations people if they'll sell to you at the same rate (or nearly the same) as they sell to those online sites.
Those discounts are typically 30%.
They may be available on a nightly basis rather than weekly.
Fifth, if you are going to a destination to visit for several days, you may be able to find multi night specials, perhaps even weeklies if you plan to stay that long.
Some properties may discount their nightly rates as much as 30% or more for 7 day stays.
Sixth, ask for the extras.
After you've done the above, ask for the extra goodies, upgrades, complimentary extras, discounts, etc.
Use your knowledge and negotiating skills to your best advantage.
Try to make a connection with the person you are talking to.
When people like and trust you, you are half way to the goal.
Do NOT be confrontational.
Remember what you Mom told you, sugar attracts more flies than vinegar! Remember to smile throughout the call and discussion.
A little appreciation helps too.