When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip 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 taking an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas where you can save more and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. So, get away from the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting till the very last moment could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or amenities. 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. And many times, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals which they promote on social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with another person and live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great option to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group, renting a campervan or RV is the best option to save on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also 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 individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
In addition, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.