Mate, I never use toll roads, but you've only got 3 days to get to Alicante; that's a challenge without using them! Personally, given your situation (pillion,etc), I'd blat it through France and head for Andorra on the N20. Avoid the tunnel & head for Andorra la Vella. Then follow the 145 to Le Seu d'Urgell (do not head follow the directions to Barcelona). As you leave Le Seu d'Urgell on the N260 you need to take the C14 to Organya, Oliana, Ponts, Artesa de Segre, Agramut, Tarrega, Solivella, Montblanc, Reus. At Reus you can then pick up the N340 coast road south or the A7 toll road south; the choice is yours.
However, check the weather forcast for Andorra in November!
Hotels in Spain are as cheap, but probably better quality than those in France as the rating system in Spain is more demanding. The Spanish chain "HB" represent good value for money. Ibis hotels can be found in Spain too, but personally I'd go with the flow and look for independant hotels; you're never far away from one. If you wanna go a bit upmarket, stay at a Parador.