Budget ideas for lodging

One great way to cut costs on hotels is to not stay at a hotel. Think of friends or family members that live near the place you want to visit. Even if you drive a few hours out of the way to stay at a free place its well worth the savings on a hotel fee. We try to ask well in advance and thank them. Then we can return the favor someday for them and its a win-win. What are some ways you save money on lodging?