If you’re traveling, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still want to save some dough.
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
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where your money goes 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 find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may 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.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times, waiting until the last minute may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with someone else which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family, renting a campervan or RV can be the best method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and have your own transportation all 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 perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
In addition, 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 at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.