When you’re on the road the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over time. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to get away from 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 off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances staying up till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with a different person and stay in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV is the best option to save on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.