While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit 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 a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies 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 or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
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
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they promote on social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and also 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 available to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
In addition, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate the perfect location to stay within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.