If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Also, try to get away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal, while other times waiting to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person which allows you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV can be a great option to save on lodging. 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 can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
In addition, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
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 especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This can be a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent 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 lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.