While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, consider spending more time in places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
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 weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in 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 decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting to the end of the day can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best option to save on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to 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 hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal could often save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and creativity it is possible to find the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.