While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting to the end of the day can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with a different person which allows you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on housing while being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be the best option to save on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during 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 used luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in 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 cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.