If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best price for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times waiting until the last minute can 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 afraid to ask for more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites 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 your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote through social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person which allows you to 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 could be the best way to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive 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 tips to help you find 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. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. It’s a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect 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 accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.