When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best price for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, you should 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 choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise on social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping 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.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent way to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to look these stores up before purchasing from a traditional department store.
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
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.