While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
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. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for short 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 spending more time in places 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. Consider hotels located 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 at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to get away from all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times, waiting until the last minute may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers which they promote on social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with another person which allows you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to 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 money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you check these stores out before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.