While traveling, where you lay 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 budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas 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 doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times waiting till the very last moment may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees 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 promotions or discounts for military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person which allows you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on housing while having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV is a great way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places 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 available to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
In addition, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as 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.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts on luggage for your next travels. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.