While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a number of factors 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 a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over time. For longer trips, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of 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 some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times staying up to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for more value or features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with a different person and live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent way to save money 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 offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.