If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lower your standards in more costly 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 everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places 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 more than two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds 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. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can save money, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances staying up to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure 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 students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they advertise through social media. Make sure you 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 a different person which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This can be a great method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV could be a great way to save money 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 special offers that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget and incredible discounts in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.