While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over time. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for 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 If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting until the last minute could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers which they promote on 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 when you swap houses with another person and live in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to look these stores up before purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.