While traveling the place you rest your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the best value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to 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 logical to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay 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 only pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid 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 cheaper during the week than weekends. So, get away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can save money while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times waiting to the end of the day can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can 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 for things like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts 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, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with a different person which allows you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is the best way to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to look these stores up before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.