If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really 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 accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. 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 across the world, try taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid 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 on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times staying up till the very last moment could score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with someone else and live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the 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 is a fantastic way to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal location to stay within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking early 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 travels to the highest degree.