While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price or, in other instances staying up to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals which they promote on social media. So 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 which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV is a great way to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great method to save on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination it is possible to find a great location to stay within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next trip. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.