When you’re on the road the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal 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 the way we travel over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with other families or friends. 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 your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to get away from the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances staying up till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they promote on 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 swap houses with another person which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal 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 could be an excellent option to save on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and 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 offered to the general public. Plus, they can do 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 cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large group.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.