While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
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 countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to score a good 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.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, avoid all the tourists and spare 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 the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute can result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they advertise through social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be a great method to save money on accommodation. 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 often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good 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 the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find a great location to stay within your budget and incredible bargains in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the fullest.