If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, consider making more time in areas 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’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for 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.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, avoid the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money, while other times, waiting until the last minute may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they advertise via social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with a different person and reside in their house while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group renting a campervan or RV is a great way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available 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 often save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and creativity it is possible to find an ideal place to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.