If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to get away from all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs, avoid crowds and still have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV can be a great way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
In addition, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores 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 purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a little bit of research and creativity, you can find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.