When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used 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 travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to get away from the crowds and save some 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 can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price, while other times, waiting until the last minute may get you a discount.
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 facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on housing while being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is a great way to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can 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 occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as 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 house for a large group.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate a great accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.