While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good 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 our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
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 crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money and other times waiting to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your hotel 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 sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be the best method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.