If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most value for money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their 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 family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
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 shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal, while other times staying up until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals which they promote through 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 someone else and live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money 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 could be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation 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. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms 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 house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great way to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.