While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed 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. Additionally, we can share the cost with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can save money, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare prices across 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 deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price and other times, waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with someone else which allows you to live in their home while they live 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 a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent option to save on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also do 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.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually find good 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 refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.