If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the most value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs 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 trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to find a 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.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. So 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 live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV could be a great method to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also do 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 money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during the 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
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations 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, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.