Although you can save a lot, be sure to note that your bid is nonrefundable and that the dates cannot be changed. Another way to save on both campgrounds and motel or hotel accommodation is to minimize the nights spent at the most popular destinations, while still visiting the desired number of days. For example, decent hotel accommodation in San Francisco costs a fortune. Dr. Voyageur is not suggesting that we spend great amounts of time commuting to sightseeing. If travelling with ample money, go with the convenient choice.
Names can make a difference, too.
Carmel is a very popular, a very charming, and a very, very expensive California coastal resort town, where until recently Clint Eastwood, the popular movie actor, was mayor. Just fifteen miles away is the larger city of Salinas with dozens of less expensive but nevertheless pleasant motels. So, visit beautiful Carmel but sleep in more mundane Salinas. The choice is yours. Lunch A super way for every traveller to save is to eat her or his main meal at lunch, in contrast to the American habit of eating the main meal in the evening.