While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But 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 where you can save more and reduce your expectations 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 all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only 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. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. So, avoid all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs, avoid crowds and still have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money, while other times waiting to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of the rewards for your hotel 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 read the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains 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 your pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote via social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with a different person which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This can be a great option to save money on housing while having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV can be a great method to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.