Do you get better hotel rates by not making reservations?

Question

I am planning a last minute trip to Myrtle Beach leaving tomorrow and I found a hotel I wanted to stay at. Could/would I get a better rate if I just walked in, or should I go ahead and make the reservations? I was reading some reviews of some hotels and I saw a few comments that said "We used their walk in rate and got a great deal", etc. I know I would run the risk of not finding vacancy, but would I get a better rate?

Answer 1

If it's a big chain, like Holiday Inn, Marriott, then they may not be authorised to lower their prices even though they only have a couple rooms left... If it's a smaller hotel then the staff usually have more freedom to choose their own rates and may give you a good deal if they so wish.

I work in a hotel and the key is to be VERY PLEASANT. For someone who is nice and friendly we may give a great price and include free breakfast, but someone who has an attitude and is willing to book an expensive suite we may say we're full just because we don't like him/her. Trust me - happens everywhere...

Give them a call and ask how many rooms they have left and then see if it's worth the risk

Answer 2

just call the hotel ahead of time...if there's no big event in town, you shouldn't have a problem getting a room. Right now, most vacationers are done for awhile, 'cause it's back to school. if they have availability, do a walk-in.  

Answer 3

Saving a few bucks isn't worth the frustration of having no vacancy. Have fun on your trip.

Answer 4

Sometimes you'll get a better rate as a walk-in ... but you always risk a "sold out" situation. Depends on how flexible you are ...