When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we still would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over time. For longer trips, we prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places 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 doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near public transportation, airports, 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 four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through 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
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times waiting until the last minute can get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges So be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they advertise 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, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people, renting a campervan or RV is a great way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you look these stores up before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.