Read This First
When you’re traveling on a tight budget, “cheap hotels under $50” can feel mythical. The truth: they exist, especially off-peak and outside major tourist zones. With a few booking tricks, you can find clean, safe, no-frills stays that cover the essentials and don’t wreck your wallet.
This guide is for general information only and isn’t financial, legal, or tax advice. Deposit and hold policies change by property, dates, and payment method. Always confirm details directly with your hotel and bank. (Last verified: September 2025)
Quick Wins (Dave’s short list)
- Use price filters and sort by “lowest price” on major OTAs, then sanity-check recent reviews.
- Be flexible: shift dates by 1–2 days and compare weekday vs. weekend.
- Look just outside the hot zones; transit-linked neighborhoods win.
- Stack savings: loyalty points, coupons, and “pay at hotel/no deposit” options when offered.
- Always check the total price (fees + taxes) before you hit book.
What Does “Under $50” Usually Look Like?
You’re shopping budget motels, basic inns, hostels, and simple guesthouses. Expect clean sheets, a private or shared bath, Wi-Fi in many places, and parking at roadside properties. You’ll trade pools and spas for essentials and location value. In smaller cities, off-interstate towns, and shoulder seasons, sub-$50 rates are most realistic.
Typical Setup
- Room: Bed, basic furniture, bath, often TV and Wi-Fi.
- Location: Near highways or in less touristy districts, sometimes close to transit.
- Amenities: Coffee, light breakfast, or none; limited front desk hours; few premium extras.
Where to Find Hotels Under $50
Use multiple sources and compare totals (not just nightly rates).
- Major OTAs: Filter to your max price, then toggle “deals” and read the newest reviews first.
- Last-Minute Apps: Same-day and next-day drops can surface $50-ish rates as hotels fill empty rooms.
- No-Deposit Listings (when available): On our site, you’ll find properties that don’t require a deposit up front, which helps cash-flow if you’re traveling light.
Pro tip: After you shortlist 3–5 properties, check each one across at least two platforms. Prices and fees can vary by a surprising amount.
Dave’s Tactics to Hit $50 (or close)
- Book early or late: Early birds nab advance rates; procrastinators catch unsold rooms. Try both if your dates allow.
- Flex your dates: Slide your stay by a day or two; Tuesdays and Wednesdays often price lower.
- Widen the map: Search 3–10 km beyond the center; use transit filters if you won’t have a car.
- Join the free programs: Even budget chains offer member-only rates or 5–10% off.
- Try motels/guesthouses: Roadside brands and simple B&Bs can out-value city hotels.
- Mind the payment type: Some rates are cheaper if you pay at the property (and sometimes avoid a deposit hold).
What $50 Options Look Like (by Type)
- Motels & Budget Inns: Straightforward rooms, parking included, Wi-Fi, sometimes basic breakfast. Great for road trips and quick overnights.
- Hostels: Cheapest beds if you’re okay with dorms; many now offer private rooms too. Bonus savings with communal kitchens.
- Guesthouses/B&Bs: In less touristy areas, you can find simple private rooms at friendly prices, often with a personal touch.
- No-Deposit Hotels: Handy when you don’t want an upfront hold; pair this with free-cancellation filters for maximum flexibility.
Save Even More (Stackable Plays)
- Bundle smart: On some platforms, flight + hotel or hotel + car knocks a few bucks off.
- Set alerts: Price-drop notifications help you pounce when rates dip.
- Travel off-peak: Avoid major holidays, festivals, and big-game weekends.
- Cook a meal: Hostels or extended-stay-style rooms with kitchenettes reduce food costs fast.
Avoid the “Gotchas” (Fees That Spike Cheap Rates)
Even bargain stays can add extras. Always expand the price breakdown before you book.
- Resort or facility fees: Cover Wi-Fi, gym, or “amenities” and may not show until checkout flow.
- Parking: Urban and beach markets can add daily parking charges.
- Early/late check fees: Arrive within standard windows or call ahead to request a courtesy exception.
- Taxes & service charges: Vary by city and state; the nightly rate isn’t the final bill.
- Cleaning or linen fees (some properties): More common on alternative stays; check the fine print.
Policy reminder (as of September 2025): Card holds and deposit rules vary by brand, rate type, and payment method. Verify with the property and your bank before you travel. See something off? Tell us.
Special Occasions on a Budget
You can keep it under $50 and still make it feel special.
- Hunt for promos: Birthday or anniversary perks pop up seasonally—ask nicely.
- Off-season romance: Shoulder months stretch your budget the furthest.
- Pick freebies: Free breakfast, welcome drinks, or local discounts add value without adding cost.
- Think alternative stays: A private hostel room or guesthouse can feel more personal than a chain box.
Family on $50? Here’s How to Make It Work
- Family-friendly deals: Many places let kids stay free with existing bedding—check the age limits.
- Kitchenette = savings: Cooking one meal a day can offset a slightly pricier room.
- Right-sized rooms: Budget suites or two-bed rooms can be cheaper than booking two separate rooms.
No-Deposit Hotels Under $50 (Cash-Flow Friendly)
If you’re traveling lean, look for properties that don’t require a deposit or large card hold.
- Use “pay at property” filters: These can sidestep upfront charges and sometimes reduce holds.
- Check cancellation windows: Combine no-deposit with free cancellation to keep your options open.
- Confirm the hold amount: Even “no deposit” places may place a small incidental hold—ask the front desk what to expect.
FAQs
Are luxury hotels ever under $50?
Not typically. Your best bets are budget motels, hostels, and simple guesthouses. Focus on cleanliness, location, and recent reviews.
How do I consistently find sub-$50 rates?
Compare across multiple sites, flex your dates, and consider suburbs or transit-linked areas. Watch for last-minute drops in off-peak periods.
Can I find no-deposit hotels under $50?
Yes—especially in smaller markets and shoulder seasons. Filter for pay-at-hotel/no-deposit options and confirm any incidental holds.
What should I check before booking?
Total cost with taxes/fees, recent reviews, transit/parking costs, cancellation terms, and any deposit/hold policy.
Final Tip
Aim for “best value,” not just “lowest price.” A $52 room with free parking and breakfast can beat a $45 rate once you add fees and transit. Use our deposit-free filters and free-cancellation tool to lock in flexibility—then enjoy the trip without worrying about your wallet. See something off? Tell us.
