If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, consider making more time in areas 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’s not logical to find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs 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. So, avoid all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up till the very last moment can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person which allows you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people, renting a campervan or RV could be a great method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This can be a great way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of research and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.