While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over time. 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 costs with other families or friends. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, get away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times waiting till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel 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 homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people hiring a campervan, or RV can be a great method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to go through these stores before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get great deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.