If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best value for money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting till the very last moment could score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites 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.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with someone else, allowing you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family renting a campervan or RV can be a great option to save on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like 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 whole house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. 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 security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.