If you’re traveling, where you lay your head in the night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, 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 sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, get away from all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times, waiting until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts which they promote through 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 a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family, renting a campervan or RV could be the best option to save on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often get great deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.