While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most value for dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost 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 to take an extended trip around the globe, you should consider spending more time in 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 if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, avoid the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times, waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request more value or amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote through social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family, renting a campervan or RV is a great method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper 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 gathering.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to go through these stores before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for 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 the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales 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 maximum.