If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we still want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book 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 certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price and other times staying up till the very last moment could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra amenities. 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 families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees 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, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals which they promote through social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person which allows you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money 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 can be an excellent way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places 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 which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
In addition, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination you can locate a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.