While traveling, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the best price for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than 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 our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with other families or friends. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. So, get away from tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times staying up until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person and live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and have the convenience of your own vehicle 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. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and creativity you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next travels. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.