When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really want isn’t as good than paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more 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 logical to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer 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.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure 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 and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times, waiting till the very last moment could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be 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. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals which they promote on social media. Be sure to follow 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 another person which allows you to stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on housing while being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV is a great way to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to go through these stores before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are 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. If you do a little research and creativity, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.