If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re more than 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 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 pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities 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. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and 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. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to 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 during the week than on weekends. Also, try to 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 off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they advertise through social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another person and live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be a great method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
As a bonus 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 you check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation 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 retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished 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 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 necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.