While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid 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 certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times staying up until the last minute may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional features. 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 ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use 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 So be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals which they promote through social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with someone else, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on housing while being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people renting a campervan or RV could be a great option to save on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to 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 great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.