When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and 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’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and lower 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 shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting until the last minute could get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with a different person and live in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be a great way to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers 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 purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination you can locate a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.