If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower 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’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach 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 four nights and only pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable 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 when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price and other times staying up until the last minute may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions 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 hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with someone else and stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on housing while having your own 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 a great option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy 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 off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for 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, as well as trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the fullest.