How to Make a Reservation

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Check the rates offered by the hotel.

   You'll get the best rates by booking a hotel reservation as far in advance of the departure date as possible or getting a last-minute deal from a website that specializes in such deals.
   
   Be aware that hotels tend to raise rates as availability declines; however, it is possible to get a last minute deal.
2. 2

   Step 2: Use an online travel site to identify hotels in the city you are visiting or near a specific attraction

   Sites that book hotels, flights, rental cars, vacation packages and more include Orbitz.com, Expedia.com and Travelocity.com.
   
   These sites have features that make it easy to adjust dates and see how it affects hotel rates.
   
   Hotels.com (an Expedia company) and HotelDiscounts.com specialize in lodgings but also book vacation packages.
   
   Sidestep.com is a search engine for other travel sites and makes it easy to compare hotel reservations and other rates.
   
   If you aren't picky about arrival and departure dates or location, you might consider Priceline.com.
   
   However, you won't know which hotel you are staying in until you book it. ,, In-room conveniences to consider include high-speed Internet, a refrigerator, a kitchen or kitchenette, and a pull-out sleeper sofa.
   
   Some hotels will bring a crib or cot into the room if you need it.
   
   Hotel amenities might include an indoor or outdoor pool, fitness center, business center, restaurants and room service. ,, Compare rates with discounts (e.g., for seniors, AAA members, frequent flyer members) and taxes applied.
   
   If you are bringing pets, verify that pets are allowed and whether an additional fee is charged.
   
   Take into account whether a free breakfast is included, or a happy hour offers free drinks and/or food. , You may need to call the hotel to get specific information, such as the year built/remodeled, check-in/check-out times and cancellation policy. , You will need to give a credit card number, but the card will not be charged unless you don't cancel according to the cancellation policy. ,
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   Step 3: address or airport.

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   Step 4: Determine whether you need a standard room

5. 5

   Step 5: one-bedroom

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   Step 6: two-bedroom or something larger.

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   Step 7: Identify what amenities you need.

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   Step 8: Enter your arrival and departure dates as well as how many adults and children will be staying in the room.

9. 9

   Step 9: Narrow down the list to one or two hotels with the amenities you need and the best rates

10. 10

    Step 10: and then go to those hotel websites to check rates there.

11. 11

    Step 11: Look at the photos and virtual tours available online to get a feel for what the hotel and its rooms look like.

12. 12

    Step 12: Book the hotel room online or by phone.

13. 13

    Step 13: Print or write down your confirmation number and bring it with you on the trip.

Detailed Guide

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