When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, you should consider spending more time in places 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’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, avoid tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can save money while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day could get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. Be sure to follow 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, allowing you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent way to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible 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 can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
In addition, 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 at discounted prices. Make sure you check these stores out prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.