If you’re traveling the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with our friends or families. However, 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 world, try making more time in areas where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to stay 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 cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they promote via 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 another person which allows you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group renting a campervan or RV is an excellent 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 special offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large group.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to look these stores up before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like 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 need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.