Traveling and hotels go hand-in-hand. While accommodation is generally one of the largest expenses when traveling, it’s also a great opportunity to save money by choosing smarter lodging options. From hostels to Airbnb, there’s a host of hotel alternatives to fit every type of budget. The key is to find the right accommodations for you and your family’s unique needs.
Whether you’re looking to stay at a hotel for business or vacation, the choice can be overwhelming. The cost and location of a hotel are important factors in making a decision, but other considerations include the amenities offered, security measures and the comfort level.
Hotels range from small “mom-and-pop” joints to massive resorts with hundreds of rooms. They offer a variety of services to meet travelers’ specific needs, including restaurants and exercise facilities. In addition, hotels are usually located in central areas that are easily accessible by taxi, bus or ride-share vehicles. Motels, on the other hand, are more often situated along highways and freeways.
Both hotels and Airbnb have flexible cancellation policies that allow you to reschedule your trip without penalty. However, some lodging brands have policies that are more flexible than others. For example, Marriott offers several different properties for all budgets and lifestyles. This includes high-end luxury offerings like the St. Regis and Ritz-Carlton, sleek urban destinations like the JW Marriott and W Hotels and tried-and-true standards such as Westin and Sheraton.