While many travel websites say they offer the best deals, you can sometimes save a lot more on budget hotel accommodations by booking directly with the hotel. As noted by reporters at the Sydney Morning Herald, travel websites often charge a booking fee to lock in the same price that you could get just by calling the hotel directly. And because some Sydney boutique hotels may choose not to be listed with major travel websites, many of their "red hot deals" don't get advertised. But knowing where and how to look for cheap hotel deals in Sydney and other major cities can save you dollars.

Here are some ideas:

Research, research, research

Don't just book the first rate you see because it's advertised as being a great deal. Compare different websites and rates, check different weeks, as peak times and special events will be more expensive than other times of the year. Also check the hotel site itself as they will often have a great rate - without the added booking fees.

Visit travel forums and read reviews

Find out what other people have to say about the accommodations. Some hotels will "self-rate" themselves as a four or five star hotel even if the amenities they have turn out to be old or malfunctioning.

Join a Loyalty Club

If you travel often, a loyalty club can really pay off. Hotels will offer special deals directly to their members that don't get published on travel deal sites or they'll give you first dibs on great rates. Get in the know!

Give them a call

If you like a place, call them direct and see if you can make a booking. Hotels will sometimes get cancellations at the last minute and be able to squeeze you in. Boutique hotels and B&Bs will often lock in a good last minute rate that has been directly booked in.