While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can 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 be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. So, get away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times waiting till the very last moment may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places 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 exchange houses with a different person and stay in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be a great way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. 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, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of 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 the comfort or security. If you do a little research and creativity it is possible to find an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the fullest.