If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy 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 check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to get away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price, while other times, waiting until the last minute can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. 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 a great option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they advertise through social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person which allows you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV is an excellent method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access 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 hotel, flight and rental car in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find a great location to stay within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.