How to Find Affordable Accommodation in the US: A Beginner’s Guide

Intro

Finding affordable accommodation in the US can be a hectic task, especially if you’re new to traveling or unfamiliar with the destination. With numerous options and price ranges, securing a budget-friendly stay requires some savvy planning. No matter what you're looking for, a cozy city hotel or a budget-friendly vacation rental, understanding the best strategies for finding cheap lodging can make a significant difference. In this guide, we’ll explore 6 ways to get cheap hotel rooms - NerdWallet, providing you with practical tips to ensure you get the best deal on your next trip to the US.

Smart Strategies for Finding Cheap Accommodation in the US

Here are 6 ways to get cheap hotel rooms and other tips to help you find budget-friendly stays.

Book in Advance

One of the most remarkable methods of ensuring you have a low-rate accommodation is by making a reservation sooner rather than later. Most hoteliers will at times lower their booking rates if clients book via their websites months or weeks in advance. Not only does this leave you with more choices, but it also increases the chances that your phone rings with interesting deals or promotions. High chances are that if you decide to make a reservation at the last minute, you will pay short of what you would have spent in normal circumstances.

Use Comparison Websites

Comparison websites such as Kayak, Expedia, or Google Hotels are some of the best options for cheap hotel rooms. These sites pool information from most of the hotel booking websites, enabling you to look at rates for the same hotel room from different websites. You can narrow down your searches based on price, location, as well as their amenities so that you secure the best bargain.

Furthermore, you may want to consider setting up price alerts for specific hotels or destinations you are looking for. Such alerts will inform you of falling prices, enabling you to book earlier than before.

Consider Alternative Accommodation Options

If standard hotels are too expensive, consider staying in hostels, vacation apartments, or Airbnb homes. These options are often more budget-friendly, especially for solo travelers. Many hostels offer private rooms at lower rates than hotels.

Vacation rentals or Airbnb properties can be a great choice for business trips. If you're short on time for sightseeing, a self-catering apartment provides flexibility and local flavor at a lower cost than a full resort.

Leverage Loyalty Programs and Discounts

Always review the fine print when booking a hotel, as loyalty programs and membership discounts can lower your stay's cost. Many hotel chains offer rewards programs where you can earn points for free nights or upgrades. Frequent travelers should consider enrolling in these programs to reduce accommodation expenses.

Credit cards also offer travel rewards and discounts or allow you to use points for cheaper stays.

Stay Outside Major Tourist Areas

Staying in its center or consuming near monuments and points of interest is usually pricier than staying in a further suburb or other residential boroughs. If you are willing to stay a few miles from the busiest and most popular tourist places and centers, you can save some money, although it may not be too much. Due to this strategy, you can still visit several points of interest without spending a fortune on hotel accommodations as you would have only stayed in the suburbs.

Look for Last-Minute Deals

Generally considering the factors around the destination's new places for delightful experiences, saving money is the best booking in advance. However, there are situations in which last-minute bookings may be the solution to providing huge savings. Usually, closer to check-in day, some hotels cut their rates to save on empty rooms. If you wait until the last minute, websites like HotelTonight, which specializes in this type of business, can assist you by providing cheap rates if you don’t mind staying in whatever accommodation is available.

Conclusion

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FAQs

1. What is the best time to book hotels in the US for lower rates?
Booking hotels 2-3 months in advance is generally recommended to secure lower rates. However, last-minute deals sometimes offer better prices, particularly if you're flexible with your travel plans.

2. Are there additional fees I should be aware of when booking US hotels?
Yes, in addition to the room rate, many hotels in the US charge resort fees, parking fees, and local taxes. Be sure to review the total cost before confirming your booking.

3. Is Airbnb cheaper than hotels in the US?

Airbnb can be cheaper, especially if you’re staying for an extended period or traveling with a group. However, Airbnb service fees can add up, so it's essential to compare total costs with hotel prices.

4. How can I find discount codes for hotel bookings?
Discount codes can be found on deal websites like Groupon or RetailMeNot or through hotel loyalty programs. Booking platforms sometimes offer promotional codes for first-time users or during sales events.

5. What’s the safest way to book budget accommodation in the US?
The safest way to secure accommodation is to use well-known travel websites or book directly through the hotel’s website. Always read reviews and check for any hidden fees before making a reservation.