If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes 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 pick a budget hotel located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize 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 booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with another person which allows you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV could be a great method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to 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 for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate a great place to stay within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.