While traveling, where you lay your head at night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with other families or friends. However, 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 globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more expensive 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 shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for groups or families. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of the rewards for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be a great method to save money 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 can often access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole 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 typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as 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. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate a great place to stay within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.