If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the best value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
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 areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy 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 check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not 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
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times, waiting till the very last moment can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise on social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with someone else and stay in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be a great option to save on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
In addition, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.