If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, consider spending more time in places where you can save more 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 pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can stay 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 tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price, while other times staying up until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote on social media. Be sure to follow 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 someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group hiring a campervan, or RV could be a great method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Plus, they can do 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 cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions 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 at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate a great accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.