While traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, consider spending more time in 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 if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. So, avoid all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times staying up until the last minute can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else and reside in their house while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent way to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips to find 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 go through these stores before purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually find good deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and 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 necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.