While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save money by going 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) it is possible to reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or 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 establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with someone else, allowing you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent way to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.