Where Are We Going to Sleep???

Or: How to Save Money on Accommodations

The bed in the Hawk's Nest cabin at Big Timber River Cabins in Leavenworth, IN

So, you've decided where you want to go. Now yo decide where to stay while you're there. 

Step 1 - hotel, motel, VRBO?

We, personally, are hotel people. But what quality of hotel depends on the trip.  If we're going on a romantic weekend, we want a nice hotel, preferably with a hot tub. If we're going on an adventure, it doesn't matter, as long as it's clean, and not in a shady neighborhood.

So, because it's my preference, and also, my blog, let's start with hotels/motels:

Pick a neighborhood/town.  If you're visiting a large city or tourist destination, think outside the box. Driving a few extra miles will save you big. For example, for our upcoming Florida trip, we're visiting St. Augustine - but staying in St. Augustine Beach.

Future Washington D.C./Civil War trip, staying in Staunton, VA. 

Gatlinburg - Stayed in Pigeon Forge

Cleveland - Stayed in Middleburg Heights

Boston - Stayed in Lexington

Gettysburg - Stayed in Chambersburg 

St. Louis - St. Charles

Cincinatti - Florence, KY

Driving, or taking public transportation, for a few miles to visit attractions, can save you big bucks.

Discounts - Also, as mentioned before, take advantage of any available discounts. Currently, Choice Hotels is offering an essential worker rate - big savings for those who qualify (This post was written in a COVID-19 world). Corporate rates, AAA, Veteran or military rates, Government employees, senior/AARP, membership is some organizations, first responders. You probably qualify for discounted rates, if you do your research. Some of these discounts are pretty substantial.

And don't forget to take advantage of loyalty programs! Saving money means always planning ahead. Booking this trip can save you big bucks on your next one.

It's cheaper to book on weekdays. Weekends and holidays mean big price increases, especially in tourist-y places. Some times of year are more expensive (think spring break, summer, Christmas vacation). If you have kids and have to plan around their school breaks, and are going to a popular destination, be prepared to pay more. That's why those discounts mentioned above are so important.

The downside to hotel rooms is that you will spend more on food than if you rented a cabin or VRBO with a kitchen. Of course, some long-term stay-type hotels offer suites with kitchens. 

So sum up-

1. Book on weekdays.

2. Stay in a nearby town, with lower rates.

3. Use any discount that applies.

Next, we're going to look at home rental options.

VRBO means Vacation Rental by Owner.  This is your AirBNB type situation. We're also going to discuss cabins, etc. in this section.

Depending  on the size of your family or group, it may be much cheaper to go this route. If your rental has a kitchen, and your group has someone willing to cook, you'll probably save money on your food budget. 

Many properties can be found on several of the popular property rental sites and very different prices - do your research. If you're looking for a cabin, see if the property owner has their own website or Facebook page. The rental sites charge fees, and you can probably get it for cheaper by reaching out directly to the owner. Many popular destinations have many, many providers, offering similar properties at very different prices (cabins in the Smokies, condos in Gulf Shores, etc.) - do your research.

Also out there, and for cheaper than the above options, if it's your preference are hostels, home sharing, and more. If you don't mind sharing a bathroom, these might be great options for you.

One last tip - if you book a hotel, check the rates regularly leading up to your trip. They can change - and if they go down, you can reap the savings with a 5 minute phone call.

Any advice for first-time travelers?  Leave a comment below!