If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we still would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up till the very last moment could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize these rewards to cover your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they advertise through social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with someone else, allowing you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group, renting a campervan or RV could be a great way to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions 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 discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually find good deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.