When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas where your money goes further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies 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 and other times staying up 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 be scared to request a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise on social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with a different person and stay in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on housing while being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people renting a campervan or RV could be the best option to save on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to look these stores up before purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.