I agree with everyone on this thread with flying budget airlines, searching for sales like Kayak or comparing prices vs. AirBNB, and eating local etc.

But the one thing people tend to forget is the value of 'time'. Sure, Hotel A is way cheaper than Hotel B but it'll take more time getting to Hotel A vs. Hotel B.

Value of time is subjective to each person and if you're stuck, you can use your hourly wage; divide it by 60 minutes; you have a price per minute.

Ex.
You save $200 on Hotel B vs. Hotel A
However, it will take you 30 minutes to get to Hotel A
Let's say you make $20/hr
That trip will cost you $10 of 'time' + transportation cost

Your savings will fluctuate based on your value of time and the relevant cost of getting there. Sticker shock of the value of time is more substantial on layovers.

Time is money! Cherish it Happy travels.