While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best 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 live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
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 accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over time. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are 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 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. Also, try to get away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money, while other times, waiting to the end of the day can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise on social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services 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 complete house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.