If you’re traveling the place you rest your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
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 bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further 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 choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up until the last minute can get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person and live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great option 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 affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.