While traveling the place you rest your head at night can consume a large portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best value for money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to 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 doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
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 cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal, while other times waiting till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just 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 can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains 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 to travel with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else, allowing you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people renting a campervan or RV is the best option to save on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and even 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 people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for 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 could find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and creativity, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.