If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best value for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we would like to save money.
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
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where your money goes 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 pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times, waiting to the end of the day could get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they advertise via social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange 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 lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent method to save money on accommodations. 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 can often access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparing 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 to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the fullest.