While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option We want to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times, waiting to the end of the day can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for your hotel 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 check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and 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 public. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
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. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing deals on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.