While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
Traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the most value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and other things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, get away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times waiting until the last minute could get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family renting a campervan or RV could be a great way to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great way to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.