While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding 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 best value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost 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 our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and lowering 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 in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, 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, therefore you might be able 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 Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. So, get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money, while other times, waiting until the last minute could get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person and reside in their house while they live in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find 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 lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.