While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lower 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 located far from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to stay away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price and other times waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with someone else, allowing you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people renting a campervan or RV is a great method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also 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. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on top-quality brands and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination you can locate a great location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.