While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still want to save some dough.
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 crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to 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 two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak), you can save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money, while other times staying up till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or facilities. You never know, they may just agree!
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.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they advertise on social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person and stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV is a great method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
In addition, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This can be a great way to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and creativity, you can find a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.