While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout 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 cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times waiting to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of the rewards for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts which they promote via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with someone else and stay in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is the best method to save money on accommodation. 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 often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations, you can often get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next journey. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.