While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best value for budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to 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. For longer trips, we prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near public transportation, airports and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for two or more nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid 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 cheaper during the week than on weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to save money, avoid crowds and still have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances staying up until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
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 best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals which they promote via social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping 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 option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people hiring a campervan, or RV is the best method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to 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 to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get great deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find a great place to stay within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.