When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best value for money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used be, but we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
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. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go 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 sensible to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, avoid the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times waiting until the last minute could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t offered 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 vehicle together as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find a great place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.