While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lower your standards 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 in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal, while other times, waiting to the end of the day may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation 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
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person, allowing you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is a great method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on high-end brands. You may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find an ideal location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.