When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid 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 on weekends. So, 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’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances, waiting to the end of the day may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated 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
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on housing while having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV is the best method to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips to find 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. Be sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a little bit of research and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.