While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas 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’s not logical to find a cheap hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times staying up till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use the rewards for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places 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 which they promote via social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person and live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV can be a great method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to 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 for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.