If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with other families or friends. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try spending more time in places 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 doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. So, stay away from all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money, while other times waiting until the last minute can get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are 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 that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote via social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person and stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be the best method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips for finding 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 go through these stores before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.