While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s 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 and we’re looking to get the most price for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from 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 peak and off-peak) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discount on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal and other times, waiting to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or 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 can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote on social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with another person and live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent way to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to go through these stores 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 get good bargains on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This can be a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.