While traveling the place you rest your head at night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where 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 want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places 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 doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout 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 cheaper during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
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 most affordable deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with someone else which allows you to live in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers 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 services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This is a fantastic 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 offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing deals on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.