When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where you can save more and lowering 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 spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more 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 your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times, waiting until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers 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
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with another person, allowing you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent way to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home 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 retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination you can locate a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.