While traveling the place you rest your head at night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further 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 choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal, while other times staying up to the end of the day could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places 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 via social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person and stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips to 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 look these stores up prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great way to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.