While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide 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 team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted 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 of our trip with other families or friends. However, 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, 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 pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to stay away from the crowds and save money by going 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 can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional facilities. 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 ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use the rewards for your lodging and save even more 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 check the fine print prior to booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with another person which allows you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be the best method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
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.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing 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 regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.