Planning a cross-country trip can be exciting, but finding affordable accommodation often presents a challenge. For travelers seeking comfortable lodging without breaking the bank, the best budget hotels for cross country trips offer a solution. These establishments provide essential amenities and convenient locations, allowing adventurers to stretch their travel budgets further while exploring the diverse landscapes of the nation.
In 2025, several hotel chains stand out as top choices for budget-conscious travelers seeking a cross-country journey. This article examines ten of the best budget hotels for cross country trips, highlighting their key features and benefits. From well-known brands like Motel 6 and Super 8 to reliable options such as Days Inn and Red Roof Inn, these accommodations cater to various needs and preferences while maintaining wallet-friendly rates. By choosing these affordable lodging options, travelers can enjoy their journey without worrying about overspending on overnight stays.
Motel 6
Motel 6, founded in 1962 in Santa Barbara, California, has become a household name in budget accommodation. Known for its great travel value, this chain offers clean and comfortable rooms across the United States and Canada. As part of G6 Hospitality, Motel 6 stands as the largest owned and operated hotel chain in North America, with approximately 1,400 locations.
Motel 6 Pricing
True to its origins, Motel 6 continues to provide affordable lodging options for travelers. While prices have increased since its initial USD 6.00 per night rate in 1962, Motel 6 remains committed to offering competitive rates. As of August 2022, the original Santa Barbara location, now the most expensive in the chain, charged USD 426.00 per night before taxes.
Motel 6 Amenities
Motel 6 provides essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for budget-conscious travelers. Standard features include:
- Free basic wireless internet access
- Expanded cable TV with premium channels like HBO and ESPN
- Free local phone calls and morning coffee
- Swimming pools and guest laundry facilities at most locations
- Non-smoking rooms
- Pet-friendly accommodations
In 2008, Motel 6 launched the ‘Phoenix Project,’ a system-wide renovation program to modernize rooms while maintaining low rates. This remodel earned Motel 6 Travel & Leisure magazine’s 2010 design award for Best Large Hotel.
Motel 6 Locations
With over 1,400 locations across the United States and Canada, Motel 6 offers convenient options for cross-country travelers. The chain’s widespread presence ensures that guests can find budget-friendly accommodations in various destinations. Motel 6 also operates Studio 6, an extended-stay hotel chain, providing additional options for longer trips.
Super 8
Super 8, a well-known hotel chain, offers quality accommodations across the United States. As part of the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts family, Super 8 has established itself as a reliable choice for budget-conscious travelers. With a focus on delivering value and hospitality, this brand has become a popular option for those seeking affordable lodging during cross-country trips.
Super 8 Pricing
Super 8 provides competitive rates for travelers looking for best budget hotels for cross country trips. The brand offers special deals and discounts for early bookings, allowing guests to save even more on their stays. While prices may vary depending on location and season, Super 8 consistently aims to provide affordable options for road trippers and budget-conscious travelers.
Super 8 Amenities
Super 8 hotels offer a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for guests. Standard features include:
- High-speed WiFi
- Free breakfast item
- Comfortable rooms with modern furnishings
- Laundry facilities (at select locations)
- Pet-friendly accommodations (at participating hotels)
The brand has also undergone a significant renovation program called INNOV8TE, which has transformed the look and feel of approximately 2,500 hotels in the U.S. and Canada. This redesign aims to elevate the guest experience while maintaining affordable rates.
Super 8 Locations
With more than 2,600 hotels spread across four continents, Super 8 boasts an extensive network of locations. In the United States, travelers can find Super 8 hotels in every state, making it an ideal choice for those planning cross-country road trips. The brand’s widespread presence along major highways ensures that weary travelers can easily spot the familiar Super 8 sign and find a reliable place to rest.
Super 8’s global reach and convenient locations have contributed to its popularity among both leisure and business travelers. The brand’s commitment to providing comfortable accommodations at affordable prices makes it an excellent option for those seeking the best budget hotels for cross country trips.
Days Inn
Days Inn, founded in 1970 by Cecil B. Day, has become a well-known name in budget-friendly accommodations. As part of the Wyndham Hotels and Resorts family, Days Inn has grown into a global chain with a significant presence in the United States, Canada, and the UK. The brand caters to both business travelers and families seeking comfortable lodging during their journeys. With its recognizable rising sun logo and newly designed Dawn rooms, Days Inn aims to provide a bright and pleasant stay for guests.
Days Inn Pricing
Days Inn offers competitive rates, making it an excellent choice for those looking for the best budget hotels for cross country trips. The chain provides various discounts to help travelers save even more. Guests can take advantage of special rates when booking at least seven days in advance. Additionally, AAA and CAA members enjoy exclusive discounts on their stays. These pricing strategies make Days Inn an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers planning extended road trips.
Days Inn Amenities
Days Inn properties typically offer a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Complimentary continental breakfast
- Outdoor pools at many locations
- Fitness facilities (at select properties)
- Pet-friendly accommodations (varies by location)
- 24-hour front desk service
Some locations may also feature additional amenities such as meeting spaces, on-site restaurants, and laundry facilities. The brand’s focus on providing essential comforts at an affordable price point makes it an ideal choice for travelers seeking the best budget hotels for cross country trips.
Days Inn Locations
With approximately 1,500 properties worldwide and over 114,000 rooms as of December 2023, Days Inn boasts an extensive network of locations. In the United States, travelers can find Days Inn hotels in every state, often conveniently situated near major highways and interstates. This widespread presence makes Days Inn an excellent option for those planning cross-country road trips, as it provides reliable and affordable accommodation at various points along their journey.
Red Roof Inn
Red Roof Inn is a well-established economy hotel chain in the United States, offering affordable accommodations for budget-conscious travelers. With over 600 properties globally, Red Roof Inn primarily serves the Midwest, Southern, and Eastern United States. The chain’s history dates back to 1973 when the first location opened in Columbus, Ohio, charging guests a mere USD 8.50 per night.
Red Roof Inn Pricing
Red Roof Inn continues to provide competitive rates, making it one of the best budget hotels for cross country trips. While prices have increased since its inception, the chain maintains its commitment to affordability. Rates vary by location and season, but travelers can often find rooms ranging from USD 70.00 to USD 110.00 per night, with some properties offering even lower rates.
Red Roof Inn Amenities
Red Roof Inn offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for guests:
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi in all guest rooms and common areas
- Pet-friendly accommodations (first pet stays free)
- Free coffee in the lobby, available 24 hours a day
- Comfortable Serta Superior Rest Suite II pillow-top mattresses
- Large high-definition TVs with 24+ HD channels, including HBO and ESPN
- Alarm clocks with dual USB charging ports
- Smoke-free rooms available at all locations
Some properties may also feature additional amenities such as outdoor pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants.
Red Roof Inn Locations
With its extensive network of properties, Red Roof Inn provides convenient options for travelers planning cross-country trips. The chain has a strong presence in various states, including California, Florida, Illinois, and Texas. This widespread availability makes Red Roof Inn an excellent choice for those seeking the best budget hotels for cross country trips, as they can find familiar and affordable accommodations at multiple points along their journey.
Microtel Inn & Suites
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham is an award-winning chain of more than 315 hotels throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, South America, and the Philippines. As one of the best budget hotels for cross country trips, Microtel offers a brilliantly simple stay with modern design and exceptional comfort. The brand is unique in the economy segment as the only prototypical, all new-construction chain, ensuring a consistent experience for guests with contemporary room and public area designs.
Microtel Inn & Suites Pricing
Microtel Inn & Suites provides competitive rates, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers planning cross-country journeys. While specific prices vary by location and season, the brand’s commitment to affordability makes it a popular choice among those seeking the best budget hotels for cross country trips.
Microtel Inn & Suites Amenities
Guests at Microtel Inn & Suites can enjoy a range of amenities designed to enhance their stay:
- Free WiFi and breakfast
- Complimentary local and long-distance calls
- Fitness centers and pools at select locations
- Modern rooms with built-in furniture
- Coffee makers, irons, and hairdryers in all rooms
- Microwaves and refrigerators in double rooms and suites
The brand’s focus on thoughtful design and efficient use of space contributes to a seamless and consistent experience for travelers.
Microtel Inn & Suites Locations
With over 315 hotels across multiple countries, Microtel Inn & Suites offers convenient options for those embarking on cross-country trips. The brand’s widespread presence, particularly in the United States, ensures that travelers can find reliable and affordable accommodations at various points along their journey. This extensive network of locations makes Microtel Inn & Suites one of the best budget hotels for cross country trips, providing consistency and value throughout a traveler’s route.
Travelodge
Travelodge, one of the best budget hotels for cross country trips, has a rich history dating back to 1939. Founded in Southern California, the first Travelodge opened its doors in San Diego in 1940. Today, Travelodge operates in multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Spain, Ireland, and various Asian nations. As of December 31, 2018, Travelodge boasted 435 properties with 31,005 rooms, making it a significant player in the budget hotel market.
Travelodge Pricing
Travelodge offers competitive rates, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers planning cross-country journeys. The chain provides various pricing options to suit different needs. Their Saver Rates offer great value at £39 or less when booked in advance. For those seeking more flexibility, Travelodge offers Flexible Rates, allowing cancelations for a full refund or fee-free changes up to midday on the day of arrival.
Travelodge Amenities
Guests at Travelodge can enjoy a range of amenities designed to enhance their stay. Each room comes equipped with a comfy king-size Dreamer™ bed, complete with a cozy duvet and four plump pillows. Additional in-room features include:
- Ensuite bath or shower rooms
- Spacious desk
- TV with Freeview
- Free WiFi (for 30 minutes per day, with 24-hour access available for a fee)
- Complimentary tea and coffee making facilities
- Hand, hair, and body wash
Travelodge Locations
With its extensive network of properties, Travelodge provides convenient options for travelers planning cross-country trips. The chain has a strong presence in various countries, making it one of the best budget hotels for cross country trips. In the United States, Travelodge locations are often situated close to the highway network, allowing for easy access and quick stops during long journeys.
America’s Best Value Inn
America’s Best Value Inn, a prominent chain in the budget hotel sector, offers comfortable accommodations for travelers seeking affordability during cross-country trips. With its slogan “The Best Value. Period,” the brand emphasizes providing guests with the most value for their money. Each locally owned and operated hotel takes pride in delivering comfort and convenience at competitive prices, making it one of the best budget hotels for cross country trips.
America’s Best Value Inn Pricing
As one of the best budget hotels for cross country trips, America’s Best Value Inn offers competitive rates to suit budget-conscious travelers. While specific prices vary by location and season, the brand’s commitment to affordability remains consistent across its properties. This pricing strategy allows guests to enjoy comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank during their journey.
America’s Best Value Inn Amenities
Guests at America’s Best Value Inn can enjoy a range of amenities designed to enhance their stay. Most locations offer:
- Free wireless high-speed Internet access
- Cable TV with HBO
- Microwave and mini-fridge in rooms
- Complimentary continental breakfast
- 24-hour front desk service
- Guest laundry facilities
- Free parking
Some properties may also feature additional amenities such as outdoor pools and fitness centers, catering to various traveler needs.
America’s Best Value Inn Locations
With over 500 hotels across the United States, America’s Best Value Inn provides convenient options for those planning cross-country trips. The brand maintains a strong presence in secondary and tertiary markets, ensuring that travelers can find reliable and affordable accommodations at various points along their journey. This extensive network of locations makes America’s Best Value Inn one of the best budget hotels for cross country trips, offering consistency and value throughout a traveler’s route.
Extended Stay America
Extended Stay America is a prominent chain of economy apartment hotels in the United States and Canada, offering comfortable accommodations for travelers seeking longer stays. Founded in 1995, the company has grown to operate over 650 hotels nationwide as of 2022. Extended Stay America caters to various guests, including business travelers, students, tourists, and those relocating, providing a home-away-from-home experience for stays ranging from several nights to months.
Extended Stay America Pricing
As one of the best budget hotels for cross country trips, Extended Stay America offers competitive rates for extended stays. The company provides special rates for stays between 7-14 nights, 15-29 nights, and 30+ nights. These discounted weekly and monthly rates automatically appear when searching for stays of one week or more, making it easy for guests to find the best deals. For stays longer than 30 days, guests may enjoy savings of up to 45% or more.
Extended Stay America Amenities
Extended Stay America hotels offer a range of amenities designed to make guests feel at home during their extended stays. Each spacious suite features:
- Fully equipped kitchens with refrigerator, stovetop, and microwave
- Free Wi-Fi
- Flat-screen TVs with premium channels
- On-site guest laundry facilities open 24/7
- Pet-friendly rooms (maximum of two pets per suite)
- Free grab-and-go breakfast at select properties
These amenities cater to the needs of long-term guests, providing comfort and convenience throughout their stay.
Extended Stay America Locations
With more than 700 hotels nationwide, Extended Stay America offers convenient options for travelers planning cross-country trips. The company’s extensive network of locations ensures that guests can find comfortable and affordable accommodations at various points along their journey. Many Extended Stay America properties are strategically situated near major highways and attractions, making them ideal for road trippers seeking the best budget hotels for cross country trips.
La Quinta
La Quinta by Wyndham is a prominent chain of limited service hotels, offering comfortable accommodations for travelers seeking affordable options during cross-country trips. With a history dating back to its founding, La Quinta has grown into a significant player in the hospitality industry. As of December 31, 2023, the company owns and operates 918 properties with 89,391 rooms.
La Quinta Pricing
La Quinta provides competitive rates, making it one of the best budget hotels for cross country trips. The chain offers flexible pricing options, with rates changing daily to accommodate various traveler needs. Many guests find La Quinta to be competitively priced, sometimes even cheaper than other familiar brands.
La Quinta Amenities
La Quinta hotels offer a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for guests:
- Free Bright Side Breakfast® served every morning
- Pet-friendly rooms at most locations
- Modern guest rooms with pillow-top mattresses and flat-screen HDTVs
- Free WiFi throughout the property
- Fitness centers and pools at select locations
- On-site convenience stores
- Meeting spaces and business facilities for corporate travelers
The brand’s commitment to providing essential amenities and friendly service makes it an excellent choice for those seeking the best budget hotels for cross country trips.
La Quinta Locations
With over 925 destinations globally, La Quinta by Wyndham has an extensive network of locations. The brand has a strong presence in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Honduras, with recent expansions into Turkey and plans for New Zealand. This widespread availability makes La Quinta an ideal choice for travelers planning cross-country journeys, offering consistent quality and value throughout their route.
Howard Johnson
Howard Johnson, commonly known as HoJo, is a well-established hotel brand with a rich history dating back to 1925. Originally starting as a roadside restaurant and ice cream parlor, it has evolved into one of the most iconic hotel chains in the United States. As of May 2024, Howard Johnson operates 280 properties worldwide, with the majority located in the United States and China.
Howard Johnson Pricing
Howard Johnson offers competitive rates, making it one of the best budget hotels for cross country trips. The chain provides various pricing options to accommodate different traveler needs. For instance, at the Howard Johnson Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Pico Rivera, prices for a one-night stay for two adults start from USD 95.00, excluding taxes and fees.
Howard Johnson Amenities
Howard Johnson hotels offer a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for guests. These typically include:
- Free WiFi
- Complimentary breakfast item
- Outdoor pools at many locations
- Pet-friendly accommodations
- Redesigned rooms
Some properties may also feature additional amenities such as conference spaces, on-site restaurants, and 24-hour front desk service.
Howard Johnson Locations
With its extensive network of properties, Howard Johnson provides convenient options for travelers planning cross-country trips. The brand has a presence in 15 countries, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, China, and various locations in Asia, the Middle East, and South America. This widespread availability makes Howard Johnson an excellent choice for those seeking budget-friendly accommodations during their journey across the country.
Conclusion
The exploration of the best budget hotels for cross country trips in 2025 has shed light on a variety of affordable accommodations across the United States. These establishments have a significant impact on making extended travel more accessible and enjoyable for budget-conscious adventurers. From well-known chains like Motel 6 and Super 8 to reliable options such as Days Inn and Red Roof Inn, these hotels offer essential amenities and convenient locations to enhance the cross-country journey.
To sum up, the diverse range of budget-friendly hotels presented in this article provides travelers with numerous options to stretch their travel budgets while exploring the nation. By choosing these wallet-friendly lodgings, road trippers can focus more on experiencing the diverse landscapes and cultures across the country without worrying about overspending on overnight stays. This allows for a more relaxed and fulfilling cross-country adventure, making the journey just as memorable as the destination itself.