When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas where you can save more and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel located far from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money, while other times, waiting until the last minute can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote via social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation 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. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could often save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. It’s a great option to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and creativity, you can find the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.