While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
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. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances staying up till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote on social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with someone else which allows you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV could be the best option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a 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 tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you check these stores out prior to 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 in the off-season or end-of-season sales. 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 method to save on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and creativity, you can find a great location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.