If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re 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 more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal or, in other instances waiting until the last minute can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they advertise on social media. So be sure to 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 exchange houses with another person, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people renting a campervan or RV is the best method to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Look 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 it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive 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.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to 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 before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.