If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we still would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Also, try to avoid all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price or, in other instances staying up to the end of the day can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request more value or features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage 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 resort or cleaning charges So be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations 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, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is the best option to save on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you check these stores out 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 great deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.