When you’re on the road the place you rest your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for money. 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 will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with other families or friends. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. So, stay away from all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times waiting till the very last moment may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. 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 promote through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
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 usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually find good deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination it is possible to find a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.