While traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same than paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over time. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
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), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various 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 price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money, while other times waiting till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person and reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV is an excellent way to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered 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 car in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips for finding 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 check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate the perfect location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.