While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the most value for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places 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’ll need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discount on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times staying up till the very last moment may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. In many cases, 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 them to pay for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for students, military personnel, and 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.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best way to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.