Hotwire Surprise... but not really a surprise

Here's the thing... every time you start poking around the Internet and doing some shopping, travel or otherwise you are leaving a digital trail. That's why you suddenly see ads everywhere for Old Navy after you've browsed their site.

The other day I was checking out a few dates on Hotwire.com.  Imagine my surprise (Yes, sarcasm) when this popped up in my e-mail folder:

As a previous Hotwire user, they have my e-mail address. I'm cool with that. I'm also cool with them sending me deals, when they are legit deals. I strongly dislike "deals" that are exactly the same price as before, or a lower price PLUS additional fees that equal the original price.

This "surprise" offer, is another $15 if I book today. Basically it's a car dealer technique.... here's a little bonus to make you sign today. "Let's get this deal done!"

I checked it out, and it's still more than my original search. Which makes me believe what they say is true, every time you search travel hotels/flights the prices will go up, not down. They key to getting around that is clearing your cache or using the private browser setting.

Also good to know is that Hotwire and Expedia are the same company. They offer same hotels and similar rates etc. Think "Future Shop" and "Best Buy" when they were sibling companies.

Only you will know when you get the right price. It's about VALUE for your dollar. There is no best price or ultimate deal. You could drive yourself crazy pursuing this unicorn.