While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used do, yet we still want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to pay more for 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 more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. So, stay away from all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money, while other times waiting until the last minute can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking 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 even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with another person and stay in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent way to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.