While traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over time. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more 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 find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. So, get away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money and other times, waiting till the very last moment could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, 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 can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover 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 check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
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 with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with someone else and live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on housing while being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV is a great option to save on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers that aren’t offered 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 are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to help you 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 you look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and creativity it is possible to find a great place to stay within your budget and incredible deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.