While traveling, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most price for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still want to save some dough.
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
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to 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 certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare money by going 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 peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times waiting to the end of the day could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request more value or features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with someone else which allows you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent method to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as 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 complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding 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 you look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and creativity it is possible to find an ideal location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.