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 options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t 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 we used have been, however we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more costly 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 in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, avoid all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day can get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your hotel 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 check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in 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 your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote through social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with someone else which allows you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent option to save on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access 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
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive 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 suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often get good bargains on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.