When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the 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.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the most value for money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the world, try spending more time in places where you can save more 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 choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay 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 certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times waiting till the very last moment could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
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 pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent option to save on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This can be a great method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.