While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the best value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used do, yet we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Go to 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 some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Also, try to stay away from tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discount 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 may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals which they promote on social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with a different person and live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic method to save 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 or family renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a whole 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 often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up before purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little research and creativity, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.