If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we still 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 style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find 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 because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. For short stays, we’re 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 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 logical to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances, waiting till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person and stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV could be a great option to save on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals 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 car together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.