While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over time. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with other families or friends. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, consider spending more time in places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely 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.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. So, stay away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just 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
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up until the last minute could get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments 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. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote via social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with someone else which allows you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often get great deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. It’s a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in 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 affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.