While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book 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 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.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discount for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price and other times staying up till the very last moment may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they might even 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 can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person and live in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV is an excellent option to save on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and even 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. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
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 discounted prices. Make sure to go through these stores before you buy from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.