If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over time. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further 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 logical to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might 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 Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up until the last minute could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with someone else, allowing you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.