If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the most price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the world, try making more time in areas where your money goes further 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 find a cheap hotel located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) it is possible to save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up 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 intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote through social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with another person which allows you to live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV is a great option to save on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking 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 stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.