If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over time. For longer trips, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations 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 locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, avoid all the tourists and spare money by travelling 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 the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times staying up until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote on social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on housing while being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.