If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size 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 room you really want. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price, while other times waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request more value or features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize these rewards to cover your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. Some places provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they advertise 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
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best option to save on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as 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 creativity, you can find a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.