When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over time. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs 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 journey around the globe, consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. If you decide to stay 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 more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
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 high and low) it is possible to cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price, while other times waiting until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers which they promote through social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great 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 a group or family, renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent option to save on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus 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. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This can be a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are 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 an ideal location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.