When you’re on the road the place you rest your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 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 assist you in saving money on lodging and to get 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’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more 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 crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll 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 some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price, while other times, waiting to the end of the day may score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals which they promote on social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some 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 to look these stores up before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as 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 little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.