If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with other families or friends. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely 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 Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to stay away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price and other times waiting until the last minute could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for more value or amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure 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 on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. 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 sometimes save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get great deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.