While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their 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 hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points and discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money or, in other instances staying up until the last minute can get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as 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 popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend 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 special discounts or deals which they promote through 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 someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent method to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions for finding 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. Be sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you may be able to find 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 the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and creativity you can locate a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.