Boston hotels can be pricey, particularly near the center and during the prime tourist season. However, it is possible to find budget accommodations if you use some common-sense strategies.
Here are some tips for saving money on Boston area hotels:
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The further out from the center you stay, the cheaper the hotels are.
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Older hotels are generally cheaper than newer hotels.
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Use your phone to book (prices are often lower than on a desktop computer).
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Use Incognito mode in your browser to get lower prices.
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Book far ahead for the lowest prices.
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Visit during the week if you are staying downtown.
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Visit on a weekend when staying at business hotels or in the suburbs.
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Sign up for a loyalty program.
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Check for family discounts.
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AAA membership can save you between 5% and 10%.
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Visit OFF-Season
Suburban Hotels
In general, hotels get cheaper the further from the city. For example, the Hilton in Burlington, a 30-minute drive from Boston, is $150 cheaper per night than its sister hotel in the city.
Many hotels in the suburbs cater to business travelers. During weekends, these hotels are half-empty, and rooms can be very cheap. Look for such hotels on I95 that circle the city.
If you stay in the suburbs, you need to either drive into the city or park there, which can cost you $50 for a whole day. Alternatively, you can Uber into the city, which might be similar in price. All in all, you may still end up saving.
Quality Budget Hotel Brands
Quality Inn, Days Inn, La Quinta Inn By Wyndham, Travel Lodge, Red Roof Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Best Western, Ramada by Wyndham
