When you’re on the road the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the 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 enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times waiting to the end of the day can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. Be sure to 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 someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great option to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best option to save on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips 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 for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. It’s a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.