If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Just 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. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more 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 nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting until the last minute may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for more value or features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
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 hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they advertise 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 when you swap houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people, renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as 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 have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.