While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. 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 less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times waiting until the last minute could get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be 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 families or groups. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote on social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV is a great method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This can be a great way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.