While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money, while other times staying up to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote through social media. So 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 another person and stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV could be a great option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find comfortable, 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, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you find 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 go through these stores before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.