While traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for money. We’re not so 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 comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal and other times waiting to the end of the day can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers which they promote on social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with another person and stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic 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 family or group renting a campervan or RV could be the best way to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers 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 flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions 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 for sale at a discount. Be sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.