If you’re traveling, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but 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
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with other families or friends. 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 globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
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 pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near public transportation, airports and other things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer 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 only pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout 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 less expensive during the week than weekends. So, get away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak), you can save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price and other times, waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use 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
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote on social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with a different person, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family, renting a campervan or RV is a great option to save on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of research and creativity you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.