While traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most value for dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide 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
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the world, try making more time in areas where you can save more and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
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. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies 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 get you a better deal and other times staying up to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they promote 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 another person which allows you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group, renting a campervan or RV is a great method to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as 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 tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget and incredible discounts in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.