If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over time. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across 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 choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of 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 less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times, waiting till the very last moment could score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they advertise via social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with another person which allows you to live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family, renting a campervan or RV is an excellent way to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some tips for finding 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 check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next travels. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.