If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend 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
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer 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 pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of 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 more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to get away from the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money, while other times waiting till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or amenities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
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 special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with another person and stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV could be a great method to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large group.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. It’s a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find a great location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.