If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good than paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where you can save more and reduce your expectations 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 everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do such as 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 for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. So, stay away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discount for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times waiting until the last minute may result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise on 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 live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be a great method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even 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 people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can often save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to help you 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. Be sure to go through these stores before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.