While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the best price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we 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 other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout 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 weekends. So, stay away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times, waiting to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, use these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they advertise on social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else which allows you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family, renting a campervan or RV is a great method to save money 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 can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips 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 discounted prices. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing bargains on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.