When you’re on the road, 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.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the best value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
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. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over time. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with our friends or families. But for shorter 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 world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
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 airports, public transportation, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can save money while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they advertise on social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another person, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have your own transportation 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 hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find a great location to stay within your budget and incredible discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.