When you’re on the road, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for our 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.
Where and how you choose 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 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Also, try to get away from tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times, waiting till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This can be a great option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions for finding 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 check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.