It's always a good idea to shop around on the Web, but it's not the only way to go. Hotel companies like Hilton, Starwood, Marriott, Radisson and others are now offering 'best rate' guarantees. So, by booking direct you can get a great deal.

There's another advantage to booking direct. By dealing with the hotel or airline, you can build loyalty. That's important because loyalty can pay off in upgrades. According to Joel Widzer, author of The Penny Pincher's Passport to Luxury Travel, loyalty can be easily leveraged. 'If you're in a lobby full of convention attendees who are only in the area for a long weekend, and not likely to return, stress your loyalty to the person helping you. Tell them that you love the hotel and you'd like to come back,' he advises. You'll be the perfect choice for an upgrade.

While we're on the subject of upgrades, here's one more thing. Widzer advises timing your arrival so you avoid business travelers. They're your competition for good rooms and upgrades. Hotel guests usually check out between 12 and 2pm. Business travelers tend to check in at 5pm and after. You should check in between 3 and 5pm so the good rooms are still available."

Get the best rate.