While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live 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
Remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over time. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lowering 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 located far from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare money by going 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’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times, waiting till the very last moment may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request more value or 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 a great option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person which allows you to stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.