How to Find Cheap Hotels in NYC

Although New York City is notoriously one of the most expensive cities in America for overnight lodging, there are creative ways to sleep without inflicting nightmares on your wallet. From traditional hotels to hostels and even "Pod" hotels, one doesn't necessarily have to park themselves in the outer circles to find bargains. It is possible for you to find inexpensive accommodations in even the midtown areas.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Knowledge of the city's geography
• Credit card for reserving space

Searching With Internet Tools

1. By far, the best way to find hotel bargains in New York City is by surfing the Internet. Many hotel chains offer bargains directly from their own web sites, while also making rooms available for discounts through the many travel booking sites commonly used by savvy travelers. Consider "bidding" on hotel rooms at sites that allow you to name your own price.

2. If you want to attend an event in New York City, it's always a good idea to book far in advance of your planned arrival date. However, there are plenty of great discounted rates for last-minute bookings, when hotels are faced with otherwise empty rooms. Be sure to check multiple web sites, because rates can vary substantially.

3. For a fun and very "hip" stay in the city, at unusually low prices, check out the newest concept of "Pod" hotels. The Pod Hotel in the trendy Midtown East part of the city is located just steps from Central Park and Radio City Music Hall, with very small rooms that include MP3 player docking stations, free wi-fi, and LCD televisions. Only the smallest rooms have shared bathrooms, with streaming music, and include in-room displays to show availability (double size rooms and above have private baths.)

4. While established chain hotels are prevalent in New York City, there are also hundreds of individually owned accommodations that might be more likely to negotiating their prices, including Bed and Breakfast establishments. Hostels, while traditionally associated with students or younger travelers, are increasingly being utilized by people of all ages in the city, with private rooms available at some. Prices are far lower than at traditional hotels.

5. After researching a hotel's Internet deals, be sure to also call them directly for a chance of even better deals. Even after being quoted a price, always ask "is this the lowest price you can offer?" Reservation agents are often trained to quote a higher rate initially, but you can actually book your room for less if you are persistent.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider your hotel's access to subway stations, which will keep your taxi costs down. Driving in New York City is rarely a good idea, with congestion and unfamiliar driving habits of the locals. Choose hotels within walking distance of major subway stations, and ask your hotel for directions and routes. Be aware of what is considered off-peak seasons or days for various hotels in New York City. For example, a hotel near the Jacob Javitts Center would be more in demand during the weekdays, when business conferences occur. Hotels in Midtown or in the theater district would be more expensive for weekend stays.
• Be aware that most hotels in New York City will require that you reserve your room with a major credit card, and cancellation policies are usually enforced. When using online booking web sites, read their cancellation or change policies carefully. Some allow no changes and offer no refunds, and others require that you make all changes through them rather than with the hotel. This can sometimes complicate the process of re-booking or obtaining refunds. Familiarize yourself with the neighborhoods and districts within New York City, and avoid ones that don't fit with your tolerance level for crime or distance from tourist activities.

Resources

• Online Travel Site
• Bargain Referrals
• Pod Accomodations