When you’re on the road the place you rest your head at night can consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used do, yet we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas 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 if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price, while other times staying up till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request a better rate or extra facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person and stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer 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.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to find 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 you check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.