If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the most price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Also, try to get away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price and other times waiting to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with another person, allowing you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent way to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next travels. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.