While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over time. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or 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 lowering your standards in more costly 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 all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll 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 some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. So, avoid all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting until the last minute can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote via social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with another person and stay in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great way to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family renting a campervan or RV could be a great method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you cash on each component.
Look 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.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large group.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on top-quality brands and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and creativity it is possible to find the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.