When you’re on the road the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking 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.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving 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. 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 costs with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money, while other times waiting until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your lodging and save more.
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 things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with a different person which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible 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 could occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.