While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best value for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places 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 find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to 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 less expensive during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can avoid the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times staying up to the end of the day may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with a different person and live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV is an excellent way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.