If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and lower 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 everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price and other times waiting to the end of the day could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request more value or amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via 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, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with someone else which allows you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent option to save on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to 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 money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms 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 whole house for a large group.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and imagination, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.