While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over time. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money, while other times staying up till the very last moment could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra features. 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. They can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote via social media. So be sure to be following them on 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 a different person, allowing you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people, renting a campervan or RV is the best option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique 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 such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips for finding 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 to go through these stores before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find a great location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.