While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could consume a large portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we still 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 comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to 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’s not sensible 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. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded 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 lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can avoid the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times waiting until the last minute could get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote via 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 and stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great option 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 with your group or family renting a campervan or RV is the best option to save on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.