By far the most common form of lodging in rural United States is the motel. Providing inexpensive rooms ($25-$80 per night as of 2004) to automotive travelers, most motels are clean and reasonable with a limited array of amenities: telephone, TV, bed, bathroom. As with most low-cost accommodations around the world, the cheaper motels tend to attract a varied clientele. Motel 6 (+1 800 466-8356) is a national chain with reasonable rates ($30-$60, depending on the city).

Hotels are available in most cities and usually offer more services and amenities than motels. Rooms usually run about $80-$200 per night, but very large, glamorous, and expensive hotels can be found in most major cities, offering luxury suites larger than some houses. An affordable and nationwide set of hotel brands exist such as Amerisuites, Hawthorn and Microtel, all boasting the amenities and services of an expensive hotel at budget to reasonable rates. AmericInn offers very nice but reasonable lodging for families and business travelers alike throughout the 50 states. In many rural areas, especially on the coasts and in New England, bed and breakfast (B&B) lodging can be found. Usually in buildings with less than a dozen units, B&Bs feature a more homely lodging experience, with complimentary breakfast served (of varying quality and complexity). Bed and breakfasts range from about $50 to $200 per night, with some places being much steeper. They can be a nice break from the impersonality of chain hotels and motels.

The two best-known hotel guides covering the U.S. are the American Automobile Association (AAA) guides, available to members of AAA and affiliated auto clubs worldwide at local AAA offices; and by Mobil Travel Guide, available at bookstores. Major online sites offering hotel bookings include Expedia, Hotels.com, Travelocity and Priceline ; be aware that many of these sites add a small commission to the room rate, so it may be cheaper to book directly through the hotel. There are also youth hostels across the USA. Most are affiliated with the American Youth Hostel organization (affiliated with Hostelling International). Quality of hostels varies widely, but at $8-$24 per night, the prices are unbeatable. Despite the name, AYH membership is open to people of any age. Independent hostels (not affiliated with AYH) are also available, particularly in larger cities (use a hostel guide to find them).

Camping can also be a very affordable lodging option, especially with good weather. The downside of camping is that most campgrounds are outside urban regions, so it's not much of an option for trips to big cities. There is a huge network of National Parks (+1 800 365-2267) in the US, with most states and counties having their own park system, too. Most state and national campgrounds are of excellent quality, with beautiful natural environments. Expect to pay $8-$20 per car on entry. Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has a chain of commercial campground franchises across the country, of significantly less charm than their public-sector equivalents.