If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, 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 down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can 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, so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to 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 during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices 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 in which you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times staying up until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with a different person and live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent option to save on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used 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 like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.