Any trip is an exciting event to look forward to. Part of the enjoyment of a trip is the comfort and luxury of a good hotel room. But you often don’t know what you are getting until you unlock the door to your hotel room. here are some ways to help take the mystery out of booking a great room at the best price.

Think about using room service if you want to enjoy late-night dining without needing to leave your hotel room. This will cost you a little extra, but the convenience it provides is worth it.

Do comparison shopping online. Often you”ll need to do some comparison shopping to find the best deals out there. Some quick web searches can do you a lot of good. There you’ll see who has the best prices for hotels in the areas you are considering. It can save you some real cash.

When planning a vacation, be sure to make all of your hotel reservations well in advance. In this way, you can lock in lower rates. If you have some flexibility regarding when you take your vacation, be sure to find out about off season rates. Very often, the rate you pay in non-peak times of year is significantly lower.

Use sensible safety and security precautions when you stay at a hotel. Find out where all the fire exits are in case of an emergency. Also, note where the nearby fire extinguishers are located. If you have any valuables, keep them in the safe at the desk or in the room.

If you are a member of a frequent flyer program or travel a lot, try joining a hotel loyalty program. You can earn points and use them toward your upcoming stays. You can also gain airline miles if the hotel is a partner of a frequent flier program. Check the airline or hotel website to see what you’re qualified for.

Check the Internet for the best deals before you book a hotel room during your next trip. Often, the reservations clerk will not advise you that a better deal is available online. It’s your job to find them yourself. Use popular websites such as Jetsetter, SniqueAway, or RueLalaTravel.

Know the check-in times. Many people show up before check-in time only to find out their room isn’t ready. Ask for an early check-in time if absolutely necessary.

If you wish to include amenities such as massage while staying at a hotel, be sure to make your reservations in advance. The best massage therapists are usually booked up for months ahead of time, and you don’t want to miss out.

There are websites available that offer you an instant discount if the hotel you have booked decreases in price before your stay. You may end up with a good amount of money back in your pocket. The best thing about this type of site is that the opposite does not apply. If the rates increase, you will only have to pay the amount you were originally quoted.

Get a membership to AAA to make booking hotel arrangements a breeze when you travel. Members of AAA receive many travel benefits including reduced hotel rates and lower car rental rates. If you have young kids, find out if they have a free car seat service.

Planning a trip should be a pleasure and your stay should even more pleasurable. So finding the best room at the right price is essential to your enjoyment. By using the hints from above, you will be able to find a comfortable and enjoyable hotel at a price that is right for you.