If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. 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 the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of 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, stay away from all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times, waiting till the very last moment could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
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 pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be a great option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like 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 necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find a great location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.