If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may 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.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, stay away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances staying up until the last minute may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person and live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. 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 often save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper 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 suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are 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 retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate a great accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.