While traveling, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used do, yet we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as 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 a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
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. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and other things to do like 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.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times staying up to the end of the day can score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for lodging and save money.
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 making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they promote via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with a different person and reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV could be the best option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’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 retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and 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 comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.