How to Beat the High Cost of a Hotel

With gasoline prices hitting record highs, other prices have been climbing upward as well. Among the prices that have shot sky high in recent months are the cost of hotel or motel room. If you haven't traveled recently and plan to make a trip, be ready for sticker shock when you make a reservation or check into a hotel. There are ways, however, to beat those high prices and still enjoy a night or more away from home.

First, if you must have a hotel room, look for savings. Online sites like Expedia and Travelocity offer lower rates on rooms. If you travel often, joining a travel group like AAA can also provide lower cost room rates. Check hotel chain sites online because these often offer lower prices. Rack rate - or the price travelers who walk in the door will pay - is always the highest of all so if you must travel, don't travel without a reservation. Another option is to look around tourist information centers, truck stops, convenience marts, and vacation attractions for coupon books. One of the best known is called Travel Buddy and these handy - and free - guides are filled with coupon savings for hotels and motels. Travel Buddy also has an online site you can access to find savings on rooms. Remember too that many hotels charge high prices in peak periods like holidays or even weekends.

Next, consider exchanging the amenities of a hotel room for something simple. The cost of a tent and camping supplies (sleeping bags, lanterns, and cookware) is often less than the cost of a single night's lodging at a major hotel chain. Once a tent and camping supplies are bought, they can last for years with little to no additional cost. The cost for tent camping is usually quite low - averages run from about $10 up to $50. Types of camp grounds run from small family owned places that are often very inexpensive to state parks with many amenities like swimming pools, playgrounds, horseback riding, hiking, and fishing. Many camping areas offer lodges with dining and recreation as well. Camping out can be a wonderful way to tune into nature in a beautiful, quiet environment.

Buying a recreational vehicle or an RV is not a very practical solution but if someone you know owns an RV, ask about borrowing it. Most RVs can park at the same parks that provide tent camping with the same amenities but remember - models that can be driven add to gasoline consumption and even pulling an RV can increase fuel costs so if you choose this option, keep this in mind.

Before visiting an area, check with local colleges and universities because some offer low cost housing in the campus dorms during the summer months. Urban areas may even have a hostel, a low type cost of lodging often found in Europe. Check into trading homes with someone far away as another possibility.

Last but not least, think about family and friends. It may seem like an old-fashioned way to find lodging but staying with friends or relatives is a time tried method that often works. It's a great way to have a family reunion and to save money on the cost of a hotel or motel. Ask those close to you about their guest rooms, finished basement or attic spaces, and make travel plans.

Remember, there are ways to work around high hotel prices and still enjoy a trip or vacation!