When you’re on the road, where you lay your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the most price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. 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 with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, consider spending more time in places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. So, get away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times, waiting till the very last moment could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts which they promote via social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with someone else and stay in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV could be the best option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could often save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete 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 often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to look these stores up before purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your 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, or looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.