Before using a hotel consolidator

Online hotel consolidator´s can save you money. Before using a hotel consolidator, you should carefully investigate the details so you can find the best reservation service. As with any online purchase, evaluate the site´s security to make sure your credit card numbers and other private information are secure. Read the site´s privacy policy to see how they can use the information you turn over to them. Also read the site´s terms of use policy. Be sure to read all the fine print and disclaimers since you´ll be bound by those terms. Hotel consolidators often sign agreements with hotels that add additional restrictions on top of the general policies of the hotel. Those restrictions vary from consolidator to consolidator, from hotel property to hotel property and can even vary from reservation to reservation so it is important that you read all the terms of the purchase to make sure you can live with the restrictions. Make sure you can get a refund or change your reservation once you have purchased a hotel reservation and, if they do allow a change, most consolidators charge a penalty fee. You usually must pay for your entire hotel stay at the time you make a hotel reservation. Know what items are included and what items are extra, including processing, booking and/or shipping and handling charges. Check to see if the rates are "per room" or "per person, based on double occupancy". The "per person, based on double occupancy" rate is twice that of the first. Check to see if you can use frequent flyer miles or other points programs and regular coupons certainly won´t apply to the special prices offered through a hotel consolidator. Find out how to contact the Consolidator´s Customer Service Department and take that contact information with you on your trip. Be sure that they have a customer support system with which you are comfortable. Know how they will confirm your reservation. Be sure to request and record your reservation confirmation number.