When you’re on the road the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the best value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may 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 some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. So, get away from the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times waiting till the very last moment may score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees 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 vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your 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 discounts or special offers which they promote through social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV can be a great option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive 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 helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.