If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the best value for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a hotel you want. 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 over the years. In the case of longer travel, we 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. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and other things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs 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 on weekdays than weekends. So, get away from tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances waiting until the last minute could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of 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 be aware of the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while having your own 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 is the best way to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some tips 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. Make sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations, you can often get good bargains on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and 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 creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing deals on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.