If you need to book a hotel room before you arrive, there are more than a few options simply because online shopping means other options. Like what online site to use? Use an ‘auction’ site? A corporate or franchise site? A third party “discount” site? The other option is to call the hotel directly.
Call directly: The advantages are many. You can easily get directions for driving or transportation services, instant confirmation numbers, the ability to ask the front desk agent or reservationist for details about the property, and more. Different rates can be discussed. When times are competitive (summer, season, depleted conditions in the area) there are fewer fare options. That is why it is good to TALK to someone: a week later, the rate may be 1/3 of the desired date. Always ask to get the lowest best available rate; be it Internet rate, online rate, triple A, etc. One drawback is the cost of the phone call, unless the hotel has an 800 number. My travel advice is that this is the best option, especially if you have questions about the hotel or the area.
Book Online: Pros: Generally, the rate will be the lowest (at least for franchise and corporate direct sites) you’ll find anywhere. Most reservations are completely secure and credit card information is protected. There is no need to wait on the phone for a human. Cons: Usually more expensive than just showing up at the hotel or motel. You may have to prepay for early dates (doesn’t make long-term financial sense) AND the reservation may not be cancelable, even if it’s months away. There is no communication with the hotel at all, so you can’t ask where the nearest 24 coffee shop is. I can’t even find the phone number of the hotel on third party sites. The confirmation number provided by third-party sites is NOT the same number hotels use, so verifying a reservation can be more difficult. Special Requests” are not always transmitted.
There are valid reasons to use ALL of these strategies. The one that suits most of your needs (be it time, money, or both) is the one to use, even if it requires more of one than the other.