While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over time. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to 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 more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times, waiting until the last minute can result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they promote through social media. So be sure to 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 swap houses with a different person which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do 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 cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.