When you’re on the road the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and reduce your expectations 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 shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times, waiting to the end of the day may score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person which allows you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
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 house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t 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 place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.