While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best value for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with other families or friends. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities, 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 only pay for three.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
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 avoid all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times, waiting until the last minute could get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request 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 a great option for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with another person and live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV could be a great option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services 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.
For your convenience, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in 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 used luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing deals on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.