If you’re traveling the place you rest your head during the night could eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the most price for our money. We’re not as down for 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 a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with friends or other families. 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 globe, consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy 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 certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling 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 can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times waiting to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are a great option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with someone else which allows you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while 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 method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of research and creativity you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at 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 travels to the highest degree.