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Don't write it on a scrap of paper and throw it on the counter. Treat it like money. If you are charged a no-show fee, the only proof you have and the only chance you have of recovering your money is your cancellation number. Print off all pertinent information (original reservation, confirmation, payment info) and bring it with you when you check in. Don't forget it on the kitchen table.

4. When you make a hotel reservation, you will be asked for a valid credit card to hold your room. The key here is _valid_. If you give a credit card to hold a hotel room, and that card will not authorize, the hotel does not have to honor your reservation. Most hotels will not charge your credit or debit card until you check out; however, when you check in, a hold is put on your account for the amount of your stay, plus a percentage for incidentals such as room service, in-house movie rentals and the like. This is an across-the-board percentage whether you're staying in a limited services hotel or a full service hotel. Your bank or credit card company does this, not the hotel, to guarantee the hotel you're not on your way to the casino to gamble away your room money. The hold will fall off (depending on your bank's policy) in one to ten days. Call your financial institution to discover their guidelines.

5. Take advantage of the free points programs many hotels chains offer. It's not often you get something for nothing (or what you would be spending anyway) and usually it's free to join. Generally, you earn points (redeemable as merchandise, online and offline gift certificates at restaurants and stores, and stays at other hotels) for every dollar you spend, and the savings can add up even if you don't travel often. As a general rule, the points do not expire and being a premium member can also afford other amenities, such as late check-outs and a free morning paper.

The more you know, the smoother your vacation plans. Decide whether the few dollars of savings is worth taking a chance of having to pay for a room you might not use. Know what you're paying for when you click the "book it" button, and put your savings in your piggy bank.

Learn more about this author, Annetta Ribken.
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