Ok, I went there since I've heard it helps you figure out how much to bid when using Priceline (which I'm going to try for the first time).

But I'm having a hard time figuring out how to use that site.

Am I correct in saying that it is bascially a message board and that you have to go find the catagory you're interested in and basically what you'll get is people discussing it on a message board?

Or is there some other way of accessing info that I'm missing?

Thanks.

Yes, it's basically a resource for information about, for instance, which hotels have recently been won and for what price, as well as lists of places that have been won. For each city, it will post recent wins as reported by board members.

Another major resource is the FAQ and the option to ask for personalized advice on bidding strategies, IF you fill out the appropriate forms correctly. There's a big learning curve for bidding on Priceline, but many of us consider it to be worthwhile.

There is a message board for bids won on Priceline for each state, or group of states.

Also there are FAQ and helpful hints to learn about "free rebids" (Zones that you can add, that do not have the level of hotel you are looking for, thereby eliminating the chance of getting a hotel there, and thus, a "free rebid) and other "tricks" that people have learned.

There are also list of hotels that have been won at each star level to help better narrow down your list of potential winning hotels.

Another similar web site is www.betterbidding.com

Actually betterbidding.com is where I initially looked.

I'll try and check out the FAQ section.

Reading BFT and learning how to use PL can be a daunting exercise. It is best to try to find someone who can explain it to you. It is not a quick lesson, but it is well worth it in the end.

BFT and PL has saved me much money, but it can be costly if you don't know how it works.

There are many threads on BFT and PL here.

I think you need to start at the beginning and read the "help" pages on Priceline and Hotwire. Then, read the FAQ's on BFT and BB.

You are correct that paying attention to BFT will help avoid overbidding. And, posted recent winning bids are very useful. But, everything turns on your dates, which is why it's just as essential to check rates for your dates through conventional means, then request bidding assistance if you like. The monitors of those boards know what they're doing and their assistance is invaluable. But, you have to do your homework - which requires considerable time and effort, but you'll avoid mistakes and save a fortune. However, there is no shortcut.

As recommended on both forums, it is critical to shop like the dickens and book the most favorable room you can find, that you can cancel, as soon as you know you are going.