If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always 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 much as we used to have been, however we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where your money goes further 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 located far from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. So, get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times staying up to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, 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.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with someone else and reside in their house while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be a great option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some 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 check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This can be a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.