While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best value for dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey 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 sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Also, try to stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting till the very last moment may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote via social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is the best option to save on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often find good deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.