When you’re on the road, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best value for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where you can save more 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 choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places 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 when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times waiting to the end of the day can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
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 might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels 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 pet-friendly options. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with someone else and reside in their house while they live in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group renting a campervan or RV can be a great method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find an ideal place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.