Traveling and hotels go hand in hand, with most travelers preferring to stay at a hotel than any other lodging. Hotels offer a host of benefits such as long hot showers, room service, unlimited TV, and temperature control at the touch of a button. However, staying at a hotel doesn’t have to be expensive, with many different options available.
The most obvious tip for saving money on hotel stays is to join a hotel loyalty and rewards program. Many major chains offer programs that reward loyal guests with free rooms and other perks, such as late checkout. The best way to maximize the value of a hotel loyalty or rewards program is to use a cobranded credit card, which will earn you even more points.
Another option for saving money on hotel stays is to travel during off-season periods. This is particularly helpful if you’re visiting a destination designed to draw large peak-season crowds, such as a theme park or a beach resort. In these cases, hotels desperate to fill rooms will slash prices and throw in extra perks like spa credits or complimentary meals.
If you’re willing to share a space with other travelers, hostels are a good choice for keeping your lodging costs low. Hostels range from small “mom-and-pop” joints with a few rooms to massive resorts that cater to group or individual travelers. They’re usually safe and clean, but the atmosphere can vary from serene to party-like, depending on the ownership and location of the hostel.
Bed-and-breakfasts are another inexpensive alternative to hotels. They typically have smaller rooms and may require sharing bathrooms, but they’re a great way to save on food expenses. Many people also choose to rent homes or apartments through services like Airbnb, which can be cheaper than a hotel and provide more space.
Another social option for lodging is to connect with hospitality-minded hosts through websites like Couchsurfing. The site allows travelers and hosts to electronically meet each other and arrange for free or discounted stays. This can be as simple as sleeping on a couch in someone’s home, or as complex as renting an entire apartment or house. For some people, this is a perfect option for stretching their comfort zone and learning how to live a little more simply. For others, it’s a chance to get to know a new culture in a very different way.