When you’re on the road the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way 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
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional features. 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 groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. So be sure to be following 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 stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate a great accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.