While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations 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 spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for two or more nights. There are times when 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 which means you’re likely to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. So, get away from the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times, waiting until the last minute may score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts which they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with a different person and reside in their house while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group renting a campervan or RV could be the best option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, 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 are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
For your convenience, 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 reduced prices. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get great deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.