If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll 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 more affordable during the week than weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discount on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. Make sure you be following 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 and reside in their house while they stay in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV could be the best way to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals 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 car as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups. With the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to look these stores up before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts on luggage for your next travels. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.