When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option We want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as 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 a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. So, get away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. 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 advertise on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique 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 suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually find good 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 refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and creativity it is possible to find a great place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next trip. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.