While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
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 pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy 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 crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price and other times waiting till the very last moment could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals which they promote through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with someone else and reside in their house while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find 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 safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips 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 to check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. It’s a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.