If you’re traveling, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, 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 pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money, while other times staying up until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. 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 families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote on social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person which allows you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips to 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. Be sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as 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 imagination you can locate the perfect location to stay within your budget and incredible bargains in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales 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 highest degree.