When you’re on the road the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 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 assist you in saving money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lower 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 pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a 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 reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money and other times, waiting to the end of the day can get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person and reside in their house while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is a great method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you check these stores out prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as 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 security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.