If you’re traveling the place you rest your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get 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’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with other families or friends. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider spending more time in places 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 find a cheap hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll 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 more affordable during the week than weekends. So, avoid the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money, while other times, waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that 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 or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person which allows you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking 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 option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.