While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances staying up until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations 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 offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.