While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs 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 trip across the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy 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 you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal, while other times staying up until the last minute can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on housing while being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group 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 the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers 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
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used 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 condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.