When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas where you can save more and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discount for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times waiting until the last minute may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request more value or features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges So be sure 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 promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote through social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able 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 offers that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity you can locate the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.