If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to have been, however 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 style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and lower 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. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money and other times waiting to the end of the day could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. 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 an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for things like students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they advertise through social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person which allows you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, 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 at reduced prices. Make sure to go through these stores before you buy from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent 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 have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find an ideal location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.