When you’re on the road the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a room you really want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times staying up 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 holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover 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, so be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in 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 used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity you can locate an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.