When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same than paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds 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. Also, try to avoid all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances waiting until the last minute can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers which they promote on social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with a different person and stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent option to save on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
In addition, 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 reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.