Motels

Motels are a great accommodation option when you're on a road trip! Motels are easily accessible from highways, motorways and areas *on* the beaten path. Finding a cheap, yet clean and amenable motel requires some planning in advance though.

How to Choose a Motel

Here are some features to look for in finding a good motel:

Chain Motel vs. Stand-alone: If you've had a previous pleasant stay in a motel, you might want to look for that same motel chain in a new destination too. The advantage of this is you are assured of a standard of quality with generally no (nasty) surprises. Stand alone motels are riskier because quality standards may fluctuate wildly and you spend more time in the research and planning phase of choosing a motel.

Price: Travel guides are great for researching motels by price since they often contain a directory listing according to cost. Motels typically offer seasonal discounts and other holiday themed pricing options, so consider asking about them.

Distance to Attractions: Most business directories, like Start Local, will offer a map of the motel location and business address. You may use this information to chart the distances between the places you'd like to visit and their distance from a motel you're considering.

Amenities: Make a list with two columns of must-have features versus desirable features. In your must-have features list, write down all the amenities you can't do without in your motel. Examples may include wheelchair-accessible rooms, non-smoking rooms and wireless internet. In the second column of desirable features, list down features you'd like and enjoy but are not absolute musts for a decent trip. Examples may include swimming pool for the kids, free parking and fitness room. The first list is your make or break list: if a motel doesn't offer your must-have features you can immediately cross it off your list and thereby make the selection process easier.

Pet-friendly: Motels can have surprisingly stringent policies on admission of pets. Motel pet policies can range from weight and shedding restrictions to pet staying and cleaning fees. Some motels may offer extra facilities such as pet grooming and walking services as well as pet treats.

Family-friendly: Family-friendliness is a key consideration if you're travelling with kids. High on your list of must-haves or desirables might be items like in-room kitchenette for quick meal preparation, hotel-planned activities and a kiddie pool.

Tips on Finding Cheap yet Comfortable Motels

• Try going to review sites and motel websites to find cheap deals and seasonal discounts.
• Research across motels and make a cross-comparison table of short-listed motels and their services
• Negotiate directly with the motel establishment to know of last-minute special deals or discounts which may not be advertised anywhere
• Read referrals and recommendations from other travelers via forums, blogs, and through personal recommendations of family and friends.