While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more 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 areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances, waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are a great option for families or groups. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote through social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with someone else and live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is a great way to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and also 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. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This can be a great way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity, you can find a great accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.