While traveling the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times, waiting to the end of the day can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. 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 ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
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
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they advertise via social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This can be a great way 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 a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV is a great way to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.