If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t 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 cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower 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 find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds 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 more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances, waiting to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they advertise through social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV can be the best option to save on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to go through these stores before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. It’s a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and creativity, you can find a great place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.