While traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more expensive 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 all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities, like beaches, restaurants, 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 four nights and only pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times waiting until the last minute can result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use the rewards for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees Be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on housing while being in your 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 way to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like 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 traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations, you can often get great deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.