While traveling the place you rest your head during the night could eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. 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 the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for 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 pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid 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 on weekends. So, avoid the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs, avoid crowds and still have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money and other times staying up to the end of the day could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals which they promote via social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be a great method to save money on lodging. 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 that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can often save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often 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 suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent condition. 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 need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.