When you’re on the road, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try making more time in areas where you can save more and lowering your standards in more expensive 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. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to find a 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 some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. So, stay away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances staying up till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra 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 families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a 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 via social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with a different person, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV is the best method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during 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. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.