If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always 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 need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the world, try spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
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 shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. So, get away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
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 cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure 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 you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times, waiting to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts which they promote through social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with someone else which allows you to live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family, renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent way to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package 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 rise of boutique hostels, you can often find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good 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 comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.