One surefire way to blow your budget while on vacation is to pay too much for lodging. Hotels can eat into your travel budget much more quickly than other travel expenses such as airline tickets. However, before you book your next vacation, here are five smart tips to save money on hotels.

1. Book in advance

If you book your vacation two or more months in advance, you will benefit from the advance sale discounts offered by both hotel chains and travel agencies themselves. In addition, you can choose from a much more varied offer in destinations, as there is more availability than at the last minute.

2. Consider a hotel credit card offer

Take advantage of credit cards like American Express® Gold Rewards Card® that offer luxury hotel privileges.

By using the card to make purchases, you receive points toward free hotel stays. However, don’t accumulate credit card debt and accrue interest just to earn points for a free hotel night. Always use your credit cards wisely if you decide to get a travel rewards credit card.

3. Revisit the Same Hotel

You can score great deals by staying at the same hotel each time you travel. Over time, you will become familiar with the managers and reservation staff if you go to the same place every year. When making your reservation, let them know you have previously stayed at the hotel. The hotel wants you to return, so it may offer you a discounted rate.

4. Watch out for deals and coupons.

Sites like Hotels.com or Hotwire.com can help you save money when booking a hotel. For example, when you have found a suitable hotel on hotwire, you just have to prepay online, and the hotel room is then guaranteed for your dates.

Additionally, you can take advantage of coupon sites like Groupon to find deals and discounts on your vacation destination. You can save up to 50% on hotel and resort packages by regularly visiting Groupon websites for deals of the day.

5. Negotiate Long-Term Rates

For extended stays of a week or more, ask about discounted rates. Booking an extended stay rate online may be possible, but contacting the hotel directly will likely guarantee you a discount.

6. Research the web pages

Web pages like Priceline and Preferred Hotels and Resorts are specially designed to function as hotel search engines. You can indicate the characteristics you are looking for in your accommodation, and they will send you the best offers. You can sometimes find real bargains and save money on hotel bookings if you shop around on these websites.

7. Listen to other travelers.

The Internet allows us to access the impressions and comments of other users who have previously stayed in a certain hotel. By reading their opinions you will get a clearer idea of what you are going to find.

In conclusion

Although it may seem like a lot of work, planning your trip ahead of time will pay off in the end. You can save money on hotel if you are flexible about your travel dates and locations. To avoid overspending, determine how much you want to spend and stick to it.