When you’re on the road the place you rest your head in the night can take up a significant portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, 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 planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to 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’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discount for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal and other times waiting to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of the rewards for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote through social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with someone else and live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV could be a great method to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals on luggage for your next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.