If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking 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 live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share 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 trip around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times, waiting until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request a better rate or extra facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they advertise via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with someone else, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be a great method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal could often save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean 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 home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This can be a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like 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 have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and creativity, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next travels. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.