If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas where you can save more and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for 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 the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times, waiting till the very last moment may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with someone else and live in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent option to save on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also conduct 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 can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.