If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save 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. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, avoid the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable 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 reduce costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price and other times, waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they advertise on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with a different person and stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and 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 hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like 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 need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and creativity, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.