If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best value for our budget. 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 stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, consider spending more time in places that will make your money go 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 if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs 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 more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times, waiting to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they advertise through social media. 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 a different person, allowing you to stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family, renting a campervan or RV can be a great method 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 are often able to access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
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 safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
In addition, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make 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, you can often get great deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.