N.H. hotels try to lure shoppers

Hotel and inn managers said such last-minute bookings in New Hampshire, one of five states without a sales tax, have become common as travelers remain cautious about their budgets and watch for good weather.

“As the economy gets better and people become more comfortable, they will book out a little further,’’ said Joseph McInerney, president and CEO of the Washington, D.C.-based American Hotel and Lodging Association.

New Hampshire does require hotels to collect a 9 percent lodging tax.

New Hampshire aggressively markets itself as a shopping destination, especially targeting neighboring states and Canada. In Vermont, a new study by business groups concludes the state’s 6 percent sales tax continues to stunt commercial growth along its eastern border because shoppers flock to New Hampshire to avoid paying it. Massachusetts has a 6.25 percent sales tax. Maine’s is 5 percent.

The Highlander Inn, near the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, is offering its second Black Friday “shopping frenzy’’ package for the night of Nov. 26 for $109.99 for two. Guests receive a coupon booklet for the mall with shuttle service that leaves as early as 4 a.m. No one booked the package last year, but that hasn’t deterred hotel management.

“I think the economy still plays a little bit of a role in it, especially now with the holiday season,’’ said Rebecca Gesking, the front-office manager.