When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where your money goes further 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 located far from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money, while other times staying up until the last minute may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or facilities. You never know, 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 can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things 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 promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote through social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person and live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people, renting a campervan or RV is a great way to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform 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 of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
In addition, 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 reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.