If you’ve traveled before, you’re probably familiar with hotel hassles: broken amenities in your room, incorrect or sneaky added charges on the bill, dirty pool water, and lack of soundproofing between rooms. Even worse, some expensive hotels might have dirty rooms. Here are some top tips to make your hotel stay pleasant and less costly.

Hotel prices can fluctuate like airfare, so there are plenty of ways to stay informed about current rates. Check out platforms like TheSuitest for data on room prices. You can also get alerts from sites like Yapta or Kayak when prices drop.

Don’t forget to use sites like Hotwire or Travelocity to compare rates if you usually book directly with a hotel. These sites can help you save money. However, if you’ve stayed at a hotel before, consider joining their loyalty program. According to Usatoday.com, booking directly through a hotel site or using a loyalty program can get you better rooms, unlike booking through general travel sites which often leave you with less desirable room options.

Parking costs can be a significant hidden fee. Many hotels charge daily fees ranging from $10 to $35 or more. Some even charge each time you leave, which restricts your movement. To save, make sure the hotel offers free, unrestricted parking.

Another great tip is to look for hotels offering free breakfast. This can save a big chunk of your travel food budget, and even if the nightly rate is a bit higher, it might still be cheaper than spending $20 or more on breakfast elsewhere.

Consider getting a credit card that rewards you for booking hotels. Sometimes, you can even use frequent flyer miles for hotel stays.

If you’re unfamiliar with an area, don’t just assume that staying within the city limits is enough. Some hotels might be far from dining options or attractions, or located next to noisy, busy roads. A quick look at Google Maps can ensure more convenience.

Big chain hotels can be expensive, assuming the price covers two people. Check out local hotels that might offer deals, especially if you’re traveling solo.

Internet access is another potential hidden fee, sometimes costing up to $20 per day. Free Wi-Fi can significantly lower your nightly costs.

Lastly, online reviews on sites like Travelocity can be extremely helpful. Hotel websites aim to present their locations in the best light, but online reviews will give you the real story, letting you know if complaints are valid.