When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay depends 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
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports and other things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on 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 tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times, waiting till the very last moment may result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with another person, allowing you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family, renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try 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 within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to find 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. Make sure you look these stores up before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.