While traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get 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’re more comfortable in apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to 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. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Plus, if you stay 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 during the week than on weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times staying up until the last minute may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use the rewards for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students 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 traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with someone else, allowing you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This can be a great option to save money on housing while having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals 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 used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.