With summer travel season here, many people are scrambling to get the lowest deals on hotel rooms.

Some might think the best prices are on the Internet, but there is now another way to snag rock-bottom rates for hotels.

Vacations are always an adventure for Anna Robin and her family.

When it comes to booking a hotel, there are some definite must-haves.

“I like a clean hotel, a sizeable room and we adore having a hotel swimming pool and a decent workout room," said Robin.

Robin said she will not settle on the room price, either.

“I feel like I know what I should be paying. If they're charging a lot more, then I'll negotiate with them,” said Robin.

More consumers are now wheeling and dealing for hotel rooms, according to author Jim Thomas, who wrote a book on the art of negotiation.

“It's very empowering. Once you get that first discount, from a hotel, there'll be no turning back,” said Thomas.

Thomas said it is easy to score a bargain. First, he suggested calling a hotel directly and to not rely on a reservation number that services several properties.

When talking to an agent, Thomas said to never take the first rate and to immediately ask for a discount.

“There's family discount, there's super saver, there's special promotion rates, there are weekend rates and they have so many rates. Undoubtedly you qualify for one or more of those rates,” said Thomas.

If an agent does not budge, Thomas recommended trying to speak with a supervisor because most times they cut rates, especially if they have empty rooms.

When hotels are booked, Thomas said, “ask for some kind of an upgrade. A room upgrade, a suite, a room on a concierge floor, dinner coupon or free parking.”

Thomas said check-in is the last chance to strike a deal. He said to ask for discounts and upgrades again, but do so when the reception desk is not busy.

“If there are a lot of people standing around, they don't want these other guests to hear that you're getting a discounted rate,” said Thomas.

Robin has negotiated some great price cuts and said she has a simple tip of her own.

“Use a polite tone and show respect for the reservations agent. I'd say nine times out of 10 someone will discuss your options with you,” said Robin.

Thomas recommended customers who have not made any reservations and are planning to do all the bargaining at the front desk do not bring bags with them.

If bags are nearby, a clerk will know the customer is probably going to find another hotel, Thomas said.