While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed 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 costs with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. 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 certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times, waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best 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 a trip with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with someone else, allowing you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV could be a great method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general people. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations, you can often find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This can be a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking 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 extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.