Avoid reservation lines and in-person booking
Lower rates are sometimes available by reserving directly with a hotel rather than by going through the reservation line. Also, travelers have a greater advantage asking for discounts when reserving a room over the phone rather than by inquiring about room availability in person.

Frequency=savings
Make sure to sign up for any frequent stay programs. You may even be able to obtain airline frequent flyer miles with your stay.

Consider suites for meetings
In situations where you will be holding a small meeting, a suite hotel can be a less expensive alternative to renting a full meeting room at the hotel.

Local bureaus can help
If you are looking for extended-stay housing in a particular area, contact local convention and visitor bureaus (CVBs), area Chambers of Commerce, and tourism offices.

Check the phone jacks
Make sure to inquire about the availability of a regular phone jack if you plan to use a modem during your stay. Many hotels have phone systems that do not use the modular jacks required by peripherals such as modems or fax machines.