If you’re traveling the place you rest your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where you can save more and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times, waiting until the last minute may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals which they promote on social media. Make sure you follow them on 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 another person and stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic 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 with your group of people renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.