I am driving from Washington, DC to Tampa, FL via I95. Looks like I'll be needing a place to rest by the time I get to the Charleston, SC area. I want to go as cheaply (yet safely) as possible since I really only need a place to lay my head. Any suggestions?

Probably the Santee exit will be your best bet if you don't want to venture far off the xway. Perhaps the Hampton Inn or Country Inn and Suites there?

Stop in Florence South Carolina. Charleston is too far from I-95.

There is a Holiday Inn right off the Florence exit along with a bunch of other national chains.

However, depending upon what time of day you start, Tampa is probably only another eight hours from Florence which is only five or so from DC. You may want to stop in the Jacksonville Florida area.

If you want cheap - and really just need a place to lay your head - there's a KOA in Florence with a Kamping Kabin. Bring a pillow, sheets and blanket with you and toss it on the bed in there. Less than 40 bucks if you get a KOA value card before you go.

There are discount coupon books at rest stops on your way down so pick up one and then make a reservation while you are driving. The rates can be a big savings and when you make the reservation make sure you mention the coupon.

Have a great trip.

go to freetrip.com and after entering Washington, DC and Tampa as starting point and destination, check off the least expensive price range for hotels.

You could probably make it to Hardeeville, SC which is just above the GA border. The Econolodge there isn't too bad for cheap and they have a pretty good free continental breakfast.

At any rate, freetrip will list the hotels all along the way in the price range you selected.

I'll pick up one of those coupon books wss is talking about and get an idea of prices (I'm in the general area tonight).

Thanks for your suggestions everyone! I appreciate your help. Keep 'em coming!