While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best value for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their 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 family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lower 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 located far from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. So, get away from the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that 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 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 housing while being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family, renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do 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 of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a 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 like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This is a fantastic 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 are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.