If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- 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 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a place you do. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over time. For longer trips, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might 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 Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up until the last minute may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts which they promote through social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on housing while being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is a great way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to 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 you look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is 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 cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity you can locate a great location to stay within your budget and incredible deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the fullest.