If you’re traveling, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used do, yet we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with other families or friends. 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 globe, consider spending more time in places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some 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 can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
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 ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers which they promote through social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person and reside in their house while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group, renting a campervan or RV could be a great method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing 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 that is in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.