If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best price for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where your money goes further 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 choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Also, try to get away from all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive 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, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price, while other times waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with another person, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy 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 during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find the perfect place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.