If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over 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 other families or friends. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and lowering your standards 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 all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to get away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. 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 a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
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 in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise on social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with a different person and live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group, renting a campervan or RV is an excellent option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you check these stores out prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity, you can find the perfect location to stay within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.