When you’re on the road, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and lower your standards in more costly 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 if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. So, get away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
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), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times, waiting to the end of the day can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for more value or features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can 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 read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals which they promote on social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with someone else and live in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV is a great method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget and incredible bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.