If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the most value for money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try 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’s not logical to pick a budget hotel located far from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for two or more 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, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can save money while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times staying up to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote through 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 a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great method to save on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent way to save money on accommodation. Additionally, 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 are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations 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 highest degree.