If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, consider spending more time in places where you can save more and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts which they promote through social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people renting a campervan or RV can be a great way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and also 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
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can often save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room within a local’s home 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 often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually find good deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate a great accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.