When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost 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 around our accommodations over time. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with 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 taking an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare 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 peak and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which 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 staying up till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or amenities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote through social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be the best method to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. With the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to look these stores up before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. If you do a little research and creativity, you can find the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.