While traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the most value for money. 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 a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. So, our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap 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 public transportation, airports and activities like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more 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.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day can get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra 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 families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize them to pay for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person and stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and have the convenience of your own vehicle all 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 perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
In addition, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. It’s a great option to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent 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 cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts on luggage for your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for 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 maximum.