While traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the most value for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and reduce your expectations 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 located far from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to stay away from tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
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 offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times, waiting to the end of the day may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, 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 certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people, renting a campervan or RV could be a great option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you check these stores out prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations You can usually find good deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.