While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good 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 the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and lower 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 if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances staying up to the end of the day can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise on social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with another person and reside in their house while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals 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 flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations 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 increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.