If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched 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. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where you can save more and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away 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 beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, avoid tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times staying up until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request a better rate or extra features. 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. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals which they promote via 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 when you exchange houses with another person and live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also 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 method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips to 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. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like 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 have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and creativity you can locate a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.