While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. 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 our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, consider spending more time in places where you can save more 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 if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated 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 homes, can be ideal for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise on social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else and live in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great option to save money on housing while being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people renting a campervan or RV can be a great option to save on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.