While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances staying up until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request 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 an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or 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 pet-friendly options. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some helpful 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. Make sure you go through these stores before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget and incredible discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.