If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. 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 globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout 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. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times waiting to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise on social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals 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 hotel, flight and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good 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. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.