If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over time. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. 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 taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay 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 only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of 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 cheaper during the week than on weekends. So, stay away from all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize these rewards to cover lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people renting a campervan or RV can be the best method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy 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 retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is 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 affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparison shopping, 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 extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the fullest.