If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim 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 up our accommodation preferences over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with other families or friends. But 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 making more time in areas where you can save more 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 everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay 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 some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances staying up 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 be intimidated to ask for more value or features. You never know, 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. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV could be the best way to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large group.
In addition, Here are some suggestions 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 for sale at a discount. Be sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.