When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over time. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the world, try making more time in areas where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to 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. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal, while other times waiting to the end of the day may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family, renting a campervan or RV is an excellent method to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you check these stores out prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. It’s a great option to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent 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 accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.