While traveling the place you rest your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more expensive 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 pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be 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 check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Also, try to stay away from the crowds and save 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 shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times, waiting until the last minute may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request more value or facilities. 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 an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they promote via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else and stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.