This is an age-old question and not only for hotel rooms, but also airfares, rental cars, and show tickets: Book now or gamble on a better deal later?
With airfares, it’s a little dicier, since the cancellation policies are so strict. But with hotel rooms, it’s more cut and dried.
We think the answer is to spend some time finding your best rate as soon as you've chosen your travel dates, then book it. Of course, pay close attention to the cancellation details, so you know what your deadline is for either locking in or bailing out.
Then you can check for better rates at your convenience, cancelling and rebooking if something better comes along.
It's tedious, but at least you have a reservation, so you’re not left out in the cold if hotel rooms get tight. You also have a base rate to compare against the new rates. And what you pay can only get cheaper, never more expensive.
The best way to find the best rates is by using discount codes for promotional deals through affiliates, like on this website. Our discounts are as good as any -- and better than some.
You should also check the "comparison" websites that combine the 10 or 12 top booking sites (such as Travelocity and Orbit) and list the best deals. Trivago is the big one these days. Keep in mind that you might have to pay to reserve, either making a deposit or shelling out the entire rooms charge at the time you book the room. On the OTAs (online travel agents), chances are that rates will be higher the closer you get to your travel dates.
Of course, if you're on a lot of players club email and direct-mail lists, you probably receive plenty of temtping offers from hotels where you play or have stayed. You can also contact the hotels direct, to see if they're offering any special deals. (But don't forget to add the dreaded resort and parking fees, especially if your hotel is on the Strip.)