If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
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 level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. 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 as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. 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 world, try 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 doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least 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 find a deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times staying up to the end of the day can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV could be the best way to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
In addition, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.