If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances, waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote on social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family renting a campervan or RV could be a great method to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. If you do a little research and creativity, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.