When I first started traveling, Days in was a decent mid-range chain. In the past decade, Days Inn seams to have gone more towards the true budget sector, but there still are some nice properties. They have a rating system - don't stay at anything less than 3 out 5 (on their scale).

Lately I pick places like Comfort Inn, Hampton Inn, or Courtyard. Hampton Inn seems to rather consistent and Courtyard has always been great, although I don't stay there as often.

Here is some great advice that you probably already know...

On the weekend (Fri, Sat, Sun) find business parks...they almost always have nice hotels (like Marriot, Crowne Plaza, and Sheraton) and deeply discount them because they were built for the mid-week business traveler. This is true in Europe too. Found a Crowne Plaza outside Amsterdam that was discounted by 2/3 from the daily rate!

During the week, look for hotels in areas that were built for the weekend traveler...like in rural locations along interstates.

Use the net to make reservations...even while traveling....great rates and saves time!