When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- 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 the room you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs 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 less expensive during the week than weekends. Also, try to stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by going 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 the peak season and off-peak), you can save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of 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.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges So be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination you can locate a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.