When you’re on the road, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option We want to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay 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
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
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 going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money, while other times staying up to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, use these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person, allowing you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is a great option to save on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also perform 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.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
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 usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores before purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and imagination, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By looking at prices 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 extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.