When you’re on the road, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving 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 prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the world, try making more time in areas 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 choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might 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.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can avoid the crowds and save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal and other times staying up until the last minute may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This is a fantastic 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 with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV could be the best way to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals 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 as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.