While traveling the place you rest your head during the night could consume a large 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 children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do, 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 only pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
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 may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with your 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 offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with another person and live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group renting a campervan or RV is a great method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to 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 accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.