When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further 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 shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation, 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. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Also, try to avoid all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price and other times, waiting till the very last moment could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with someone else, allowing you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on housing while being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV could be a great option to save on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services 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.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions 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 for sale at a discount. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and creativity, you can find the perfect location to stay within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.