If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most value for dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used be, but we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lowering 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 in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to find a deal. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds 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 more affordable during the week than weekends. So, stay away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times waiting to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person which allows you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Look for 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 comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local 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 retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation 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 outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find a great accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.