When you’re on the road, where you lay your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with other families or friends. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can save money, avoid crowds and still have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request more value or facilities. 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 families or groups. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with another person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV could be a great way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during 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
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of investigation and creativity you can locate a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.