If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a hotel you want. So, 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 around our accommodations over time. For longer trips, we prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, get away from all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times, waiting till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with another person which allows you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV can be the best option to save on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.