When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with 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. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes 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 pick a budget hotel located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on 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 are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money or, in other instances staying up until the last minute may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they promote through 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 when you swap houses with someone else and reside in their house while they live in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV is an excellent method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access 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
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.