While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with other families or friends. 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 around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lowering your standards 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 if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. So, avoid the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times, waiting until the last minute may result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with a different person and reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family, renting a campervan or RV can be the best option to save 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 can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the fullest.