While 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.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still 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 style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. However, 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 spending more time in places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times staying up until the last minute may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person and live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people renting a campervan or RV can be the best option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores before you buy from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.