If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for 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.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds 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 more affordable during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure 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 and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money, while other times, waiting until the last minute may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else and live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great option to save money on housing while being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV is the best way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on high-end brands. You may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.