While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option We want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and reduce your expectations 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 if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs 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 avoid tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances staying up until the last minute may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for more value or amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as 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
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers which they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with another person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV can be a great method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This is a fantastic way 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 have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget and incredible deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.