While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes 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 sensible to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times waiting until the last minute could get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers which they promote through social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person and reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be the best method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect 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 accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little research and creativity it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials 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.