If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, consider spending more time in places 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 doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. So, get away from tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive 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 the rewards for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best option to save on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to help you find 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 look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.