Sometimes when choosing a hotel, it can be tempting to select one based only on price. Or, you might just be unfamiliar with the choices in a particular area. Instead of having such a narrow focus or not knowing enough information, you’re about to learn some helpful tips that will aid you in your decision.

To minimize your travel expenses when you are staying near a resort area like Walt Disney World, choose a hotel that offers a complimentary shuttle to nearby attractions. In this sort of area, you shouldn’t need to rent a car. Instead, use a cab to get to your hotel and then use the shuttle to enjoy the fun.

If you have a safe in your closet, then you should use it to keep your valuables safe while you are outside of the room. Put all of your valuables and small electronics into the safe, such as your jewelry and iPad. They’ll be safe in there and you can leave the hotel room without worry.

To help your family get into the hotel as comfortably as possible when you are pulling in for a late-night checkin, pull the car under the porte cochere, and leave the engine running while you go inside to check in. Even if you don’t get lucky enough to get to have a room close to the front and have to drive to another entrance, this minimizes the traipsing that they have to do.

Look into club-level rates. While these rooms are more expensive up front, they typically offer a great value. For example, included in the price could be breakfast or dessert, Wi-Fi service or other perks, like drinks and snacks. See what is offered and decide if the extra cost is worth it to you.

If you are out of the room for any length of time, protect the valuables you leave in the room. In addition to leaving expensive items in a safe, leave the television on when you are out of the room. That will make it look like you are still there and thieves will move on.

If you are traveling with pets, be sure to select hotels that have good accommodations for them. This is especially true if you are planning on an extended stay. A good hotel that allows pets should have amenities for them. These might include and groomer, doggy day care and special walking areas.

Don’t book a hotel room without looking for online deals. In a lot of cases, the person booking your room isn’t going to tell you about online discounts. It is your responsibility to find these discounts. Websites like Travelocity and Expedia can be a great way to do research on hotels.

To get the best possible rate for a hotel room, book well in advance of your trip. Rates are markedly higher if you just get the room at the desk. In addition to saving you a lot of money, advance booking will also ensure you aren’t left without a room.

When booking your room, get exactly what you want. If you want a good view, make sure you get one. If you want to be away from the pool area, make sure you get that as well. Look at a layout of the hotel before calling or booking so you have a good idea of what to expect.

Becoming more familiar with what it takes to choose a good hotel will enable you to never have a disappointing night’s stay again. If situations do arise, you will know how to handle them. So as you prepare to plan out your next trip, use the tips that you’ve just read to make the right decision regarding the hotel you choose.

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