If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we still 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 style of travel and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim 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 around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with other families or friends. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more costly 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 have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price and other times staying up to the end of the day can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, 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 sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These places 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 which they promote on social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person and stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV can be a great option to save on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
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 at reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.