While traveling the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try 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 everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs 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. Also, try to get 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 tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting till the very last moment may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals which they promote through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with a different person and reside in their house while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is the best option to save on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.