When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most price for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same than paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the world, try making more time in areas where your money goes further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, get away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak), you can save money while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through 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
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times, waiting to the end of the day can score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise on social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another person and live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to 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 look these stores up before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.