Traveling and hotels are a huge part of the travel industry, with accommodations taking up a significant chunk of the average trip budget. But, there are a lot of ways to save on hotel stays without cutting corners or sacrificing comfort.

For budget-minded travelers, the best strategy is to be flexible about travel dates and destinations. By traveling during the off season, you can take advantage of slashed rates and avoid massive crowds.

Another great way to stretch your travel dollars is to book a stay outside of major cities and tourist hubs, where hotels are often more expensive. Consider booking a hotel on the outskirts of New York City, for example, to save a substantial amount on lodging expenses.

The popularity of Airbnb and homestay offerings has made it easier for travelers to find shared accommodation options. This type of travel involves staying in a room or home that is owned and operated by an individual, with guests sharing access to the space, including kitchen, living areas, and bathrooms. Hostels are another common form of shared accommodation that caters to a budget-conscious clientele. Hostels typically offer dorm-style rooms with mixed or same-sex beds, and may also feature communal lounges, bars, and/or outdoor spaces.

Aside from hotel rooms and bed-and-breakfasts, there are a number of other unique lodging options for the adventurous. Campsites, for example, allow you to sleep in an outdoor shelter or tent during your travels, while glamping involves sleeping in more luxurious accommodations such as furnished tents.