Sometimes, searching for deals seems as treacherous as finding water in a barren dessert, but shopping for savings on hotel rooms is not so hard. There are several things you can do to receive the best hotel rate possible. Below, you’ll find seven helpful tips. Take a look:

1. Shop Around
   Start by checking the websites of your favorite hotel chains, as they sometimes run promotions on their sites. Then, check out sites like HotelComparison.com, which can help save considerable amounts on hotel rates. And although these sites do charge small booking fees, it’s really not much when you consider the typical savings.
2. Be Particular About Price, Not the Décor
   When you’re searching for a deal, you need to pay attention to the price, not the wallpaper scheme. And if you’re brave, you can try the name-your-own-price sites. But be forewarned: you never know exactly where you’ll be staying.
3. Talk to the Hotel
   Many surveys have found that people who call a hotel’s 800 number to book their rooms almost always pay more than the people who call the hotel directly. If you book by phone, make sure you’re booking through the front desk (where you can sometimes negotiate) and not with an agent.
4. Be Flexible
   Hotel rates vary with the season. If you have the choice to decide when you’re traveling, then you also have an opportunity to receive the off-season rates, which are sometimes hundreds of dollars cheaper. Also, you may find weekend deals at bed & breakfasts, while regular hotels tend to be less expensive on weekdays.
5. Wait Until the Last Minute
   Obviously, this move can backfire and leave you stranded if your desired hotel or location gets booked, but if you’re willing to take the risk, make a habit of waiting for last minute specials. Managers are often willing to lower their rates to fill empty rooms. For a no risk alternative, book the hotel you really want in advance. If you find a better deal elsewhere, cancel your first booking before you incur any cancellation penalties. Either way, you’ll be covered.
6. Buy a Package
   Buying airline tickets and hotel rooms together is a great idea, as many times there is a reduced price on the hotel room.
7. Just Ask for a Lower Rate
   This sounds ridiculous, but of all these tips, it often works the best. Just ask for a lower rate when you’re checking in. Seriously. The worst thing that can happen is they say, “No.” You still get to sleep that night knowing you got the best hotel rate possible.