While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we prefer 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 more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book 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 some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times staying up to the end of the day may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with a different person, allowing you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV is the best way to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you check these stores out prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. 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 necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.