While traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as 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 taking an extended trip across the world, try spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll 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 less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they advertise on social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best method to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.