When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good than paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, 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 cost with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas where your money goes further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent 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 price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price, while other times waiting till the very last moment could score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers which they promote through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person, allowing you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people 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 your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal can occasionally save 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 safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you look these stores up before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.