When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or 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 journey around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
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 the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs, avoid crowds and still have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price, while other times waiting to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, 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. They can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of these rewards to cover your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they promote via social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often get good bargains on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.