When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to live 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
Be aware that obtaining 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel 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. Plus, we can split the cost with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try 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 sensible to find a cheap 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 public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting till the very last moment may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid 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 houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like 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 vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with someone else which allows you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group, renting a campervan or RV is the best way to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little research and creativity it is possible to find the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.