When you’re on the road the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price 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 the way we travel over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with other families or friends. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times, waiting until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request a better rate or extra facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of the rewards for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. 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 advertise on social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with someone else and stay in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people renting a campervan or RV is a great way to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect location to stay within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next trip. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.