1. Go to the source: Don't bother dealing with the hotel's toll-free reservations line -- negotiate directly with the hotel instead.
2. Don't settle for the first rate you're offered: "Hotels have dozens of rates for their rooms, and they usually quote from the top (referred to as the 'rack rate') down," Thomas writes. So inquire about corporate or other promotional rates and let the hotel know if the price you've been given is still too high.
3. Trade up: If the hotel still doesn't budge, negotiate for other extras, such as a suite for the regular room rate or a room on the concierge floor. Many hotel staff members are being trained to not let customers get away because of price.
