When you’re on the road, where you lay your head at night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
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 money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider spending more time in 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 find a cheap hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save 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 can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times staying up until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request more value or facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person, allowing you to stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group hiring a campervan, or RV could be the best option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
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 safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.