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 affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for dollars. 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 live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times waiting until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students or 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 well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on housing while having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV is a great option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly 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 method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.