If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. So, get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal and other times, waiting to the end of the day can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals which they promote via social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group, renting a campervan or RV could be the best way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.