When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, 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 choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times waiting until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. So be sure to 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 someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV is the best option to save on accommodations. 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 offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.