If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over time. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to 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 pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, 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 two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discount on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances, waiting to the end of the day can get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they promote on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.