If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Our goal 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 up our accommodation preferences over time. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances, waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional features. 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 ideal for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students and 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.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote through social media. So 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 a different person and stay in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family renting a campervan or RV is an excellent way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate 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 the comfort or security. With a bit of research and creativity you can locate a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.