While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
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. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. So, avoid all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places 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 that they promote via social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful way 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 of people, renting a campervan or RV could be a great method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
As a bonus 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 at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing 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 the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and creativity, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next trip. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the 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.