While traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they are 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 more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals which they promote on social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with a different person, allowing you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group, renting a campervan or RV is a great way to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together in a bundle deal can often save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation 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 refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and creativity you can locate a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.