If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used do, yet we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around 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’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times waiting till the very last moment can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person and stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on housing while being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV is an excellent method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
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.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.