When you prefer to avoid renting an entire house but still desire a private area to relax, cabins are an excellent choice for your getaway. These structures are frequently situated in <a t have to worry about walking through a lobby in your swimwear! Major chains maintain high standards for cleanliness and service, and they often provide incentives to earn your loyalty.
Many modern motels now offer perks typically associated with most popular budget motel chains across the United States:
Econo Lodge: Seniors and AARP members get up to 10% off, and the motel chain is a part of the Choice Hotels rewards program.
Howard Johnson by Wyndham: YMCA members get up to 20% off, and the chain donates 10% to the Y for every member booking. Members of auto clubs like AAA also get discounts. You can earn and use Wyndham points.
Motel 6: Military members and AARP members get a 10% discount, and kids and pets stay free.
Red Roof: This chain’s four brands offer discounts to seniors, AAA members and government and military members. Pets stay free. Join RediRewards and double your rewards point during the summer.
Super 8 by Wyndham: This budget motel offers discounts for military members, seniors, AARP and auto clubs. You can earn and use Wyndham points.
Travelodge by Wyndham: Outdoorsy types will love this chain’s discounts for National Park Pass holders (up to 20%) and auto clubs (10% and up). You can earn and use Wyndham points.
Hotels
Do not overlook traditional hotels when searching for affordable accommodations. While they are often the priciest option, there are numerous ways to uncover deals. Begin by checking for points through your credit card rewards or hotel loyalty programs. If you aren’t enrolled, sign up for a program immediately.
If you lack points to redeem, consider last-minute booking platforms like HotelTonight. If you are open to a surprise—meaning you won’t know the exact property until after you pay—look into Priceline’s Express Deals.
More hotel savings tips: Call the hotel directly, instead of using third-party booking sites. Check your credit card rewards or long-lost hotel programs you forgot your signed up for. Websites and apps such as HostelWorld and Hosteling International can help travelers with planning and booking. And although they have a reputation as bare-bones places to lay your heads, many hostels have upped their offerings. Some offer free breakfasts!
Campgrounds
Of all the places to sleep for cheap, especially if you don’t mind roughing it, campgrounds are hard to beat. To get the best deals and the best sites, Yates recommends traveling off-peak if you can, but also choosing sites that are a little more unusual. Pitchup offers off-the-beaten-track camping sites like farms, fairgrounds and stables in addition to traditional campgrounds. If you’re flexible on location and dates, try the ‘budget/backpacker’ filter that lets you browse the best value camping sites. All of these options offer a unique vacation experience that won’t break the bank.
About the experts
Caroline Burns is the director of public relations and communications at HomeToGo, a vacation rental booking company that operates in more than 30 countries. An expert traveler, Burns has visited over 50 countries and brings that expertise to her role at HomeToGo.
Dan Yates is the founder and managing director of Pitchup.com, a leading platform for booking outdoor accommodations for camping, glamping and RV travel. He has more than 20 years in the internet travel space, and has played a key role in driving Pitchup’s growth.
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