While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around 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 doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to stay away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times waiting until the last minute may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals which they promote 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
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals 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 hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts on luggage for your next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.