If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, 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 pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price, while other times, waiting until the last minute may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use the rewards for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. 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 that they promote on social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person which allows you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV can be a great method to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to go through these stores before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.