How to Get the Best Rates at Motels

Whether you're planning a family vacation, business trip or other type of getaway, you might be considering a motel for your stays. Most people will make their decisions for accommodations based on how much they want to spend, and there are ways to get the best motel rate. The key is knowing where to look, and when to book your room.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Ask for a discount. Contact the hotel directly and inquire about motel specials or package deals. If traveling with a group, ask for a group rate. Being a senior citizen or holding a AAA membership can result in a lower motel rate.

Step 2

Shop online. Use travel websites such as Expedia or Travelocity to compare motel rates and get the best deal.

Step 3

Be flexible. Weekend and holiday travel can result in higher rates. Plan your vacation or trip mid-week or during off times to save money on a motel.

Step 4

Find a connection. Ask around to see if you know someone who works at a hotel or motel chain. If so, ask to use their employee discount to obtain a lower price.

Step 5

Lower your standards. Motels with extra amenities such as swimming pool and free breakfast tend to charge more for rooms. Select a motel with fewer amenities to keep the cost affordable.

Step 6

Join a rewards program. Apply for a credit card that offers travel points or rewards you for your purchases. Redeem points to save money on travel accommodations.

Resources

Article Written By Valencia Higuera

Valencia Higuera is a freelance writer from Chesapeake, Virginia. She has contributed content to print publications and online publications such as Sidestep.com, AOL Travel, Work.com and ABC Loan Guide. Higuera primarily works as a personal finance, travel and medical writer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English/journalism from Old Dominion University.

Editor's Pick

5 Top North American Wildflower Hikes

Springtime brings a sense of new beginnings and new life as flowers begin to bloom and fill the air with their sweet and pleasant fragrance. Luckily we can see wildflowers all summer long, since spring hits at different times throughout North America. See flowering cactu...
More National Parks...
Popular Article

National Park Substitutes: Great Spots Without the Crowds

Coping with crowds at national parks can get tiresome, especially during the peak tourist season. If you want to escape from the herd, or just take a breather from the bustle of bigger attractions, the United States has plenty of less-visited but still worthwhile spots t...
More National Parks...
Featured Destination

Prevent Yourself from Getting Lost While Hiking

When you're hiking you're going to want to make sure you stay found. What I mean by that is that you've put an itinerary in the car, you know the area that you're hiking to, you know the route and the trail you plan on being on, you know what the trail markers are going ...
More Camping Basics...