Unless you only plan on sleeping at your hotel when you're on vacation, the lowest rate shouldn't be the sole criteria you use when choosing accommodations. There are plenty of ways to save money and maximize value on hotels, but they require a little research, a bit of patience, and the courage to veer slightly off the beaten path. Staying at B&Bs is one way to maximize value on your vacation. A comfortable place to stay that's run by a knowledgeable staff can enrich and add value to your limited and precious vacation time. Since they are independently run, they can't lower rates as drastically as large hotel chains sometimes do. But often, regular rates at B&Bs wind up being comparable or even better than at hotels.

B&B bonuses

        True to the name, the breakfast part of B&B is included in the price. A full breakfast is definitely a more satisfying way to start the day than with the typical hotel continental breakfast. Not to mention that going out for breakfast, even at a diner, can easily top $20 a day for two people. Plus, since the B&B innkeeper is often the cook as well, it's easy to request that special diets be accommodated.

        While hotels will charge you for every amenity, phone call, and parking space, B&Bs often offer these key elements for free. Most of the time, local phone calls are free. While the 50 cents or one dollar per local call that traditional hotels charge doesn't seem like much, add up a few calls to local sites for entrance hours, a dinner reservation or two, calls about the rental car, and a flight confirmation, and you've racked up $15 in extra charges that are tacked onto your hotel bill upon check-out. Also, you can save on parking, which at hotels can easily cost $20 a day, but tends to be free at B&Bs.

        There are also ways in which staying at a B&B can add extra subjective value to your holiday. For example, the kind of personalized service that you would have to pay big bucks for at an upscale boutique hotel comes with a lower price tag at B&Bs, since most innkeepers don't have more than a dozen rooms to worry about. And, since you're staying with people who know the area well, and who have a personal investment in your happiness, recommendations for sights, restaurants, picnic spots, and more are at your disposal. Some innkeepers will even make theater and restaurant reservations for you.

        Also, because the innkeeper often lives at the property, you'll be treated like part of the family, with access to the kitchen; common living spaces where you can borrow books, watch movies, or listen to music; and the grounds. Plus, where else can you find perks like complimentary Ben and Jerry's ice cream in the afternoon, canoes and fishing poles for guest use, individually named rooms, three-course breakfasts, and fresh flowers by your bed?

        Added value aside, B&Bs' rates are often similar or even better than hotel rates. Atmosphere, location, service, and overall value should weigh in on your lodging decision. After all, where you stay can make or break a vacation.