While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we 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 level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price and other times, waiting till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through 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 might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to check the fine print prior to 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 deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote on social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person and live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people renting a campervan or RV is a great method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations You can usually find good deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of research and creativity, you can find a great location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.