While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to 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 less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from all the tourists and spare 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 during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or features. 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 an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers which they promote through social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person and stay in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be a great method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals 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
A flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety 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.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals 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
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a little bit of research and creativity it is possible to find an ideal location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next travels. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.