Is it possible to get a cheaper rate if I just walk into a hotel?

Is it possible to get a cheaper rate if I just walk into a hotel?

Catharine Hamm (Travel Editor, LA Times) gives expert video advice on: Can I get a better deal avoiding the 800 number and calling the hotel directly?; Is it possible to get a cheaper rate if I just walk into a hotel?; Are there certain types of hotels that families should avoid? and more...

Sometimes if you walk into a hotel late in the day, you will get a better rate because there's inventory that's still unsold - there are rooms that are still available. The hotel, rather than have those go vacant for the night and risk not getting revenue for those rooms, will discount them. You may be the recipient of a discount, just because there's extra inventory. That's unlike, for example, a rental car, where you should never just walk up to the counter and say you need a car. You should always call ahead, even if you stop as you're getting off your plane. A hotel is a little bit different and you can achieve big savings this way. However, it doesn't always work. I've had an experience where I've tried to check in late in the day, and I went in very confidently and said, "It's six o'clock. How about a little discount on that room?" and they said essentially, "Well, it's six o'clock and you don't have a place to stay, how about if you pay full rate?" It doesn't always work, but it's worth asking.