Simple Solution for Priceline with 3+ People

[lenchik55]

I was concerned about using priceline in San Diego, as a couple of hotels charge a lot more for 2 beds then one.

Why not bring an inflatable mattress? Walmart has them online, starting from $39 (including the pump). It might be a little tight if the room is small, but I think most 4* hotel rooms will have the space for at least a twin if not a double.

If I can get two beds through priceline, great.. If I call the hotel and it sounds like it will be a problem, I'll bring the air mattress.

What does the board think?

[powerplantop]

I have been in 3* and 4* rooms that did not have room for an air mattress. If a person is willing to take a chance and they have a backup plan then go for it. But taking a chance in a sold out city could ruin your trip.

[thereuare]

As well, some rooms are only designated (by fire code) for double occupancy... run into a property that wants to follow the letter of the law (perhaps due to a recent fine for some other violation) or a desk clerk that decides to make an issue of it, can result in a problem as well.

Remember that HOTWIRE is also an option as they allow you to search for up to quad occupancy, and for a few extra dollars will give you peace of mind as well as likely be a bit more comfortable than an airmatress.

Please use these PRICELINE and HOTWIRE links to begin your travel purchases.

[lenchik55]

Yeah I guess there is still some risk. Although looks like 'most of the time' you can get 2 beds, and I think adding the mattress idea brings the risk down even more. I've never seen a room that couldn't fit a twin air mattress in a 3* or 4* hotel, but I haven't traveled that much.

I do have an alternative place to stay available in case nothing works out with bedding, so I think I could take the risk and try priceline bidding. Hotwire doesn't have any impressive deals for my stay: (San Diego, 10/29 - 11/02).

[Gallus50]

Hi lenchik - I think your solution sounds pretty good. As long as you don't telegraph your move with the air mattress, I don't think any clerk is going to know or care. The odds of them checking up on you are extremely slim.

I also think the odds of creating a fire hazard are slim.

Some older, urban hotels (NY,SF) might not have much floor space in a one bed room, but MOST hotel rooms with one bed should have plenty of floor for an air mattress.

I'm not one who follows all the rules to the letter, so I say go for it.

[powerplantop]

Yeah I guess there is still some risk. Although looks like 'most of the time' you can get 2 beds, and I think adding the mattress idea brings the risk down even more. I've never seen a room that couldn't fit a twin air mattress in a 3* or 4* hotel, but I haven't traveled that much.

Here is a 3* http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews...HECK_RATES_CONT