When you’re on the road the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best price for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. So, avoid all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money and other times staying up until the last minute can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote via social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be a great option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive 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.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to go through these stores before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation 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 used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate a great place to stay within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the fullest.