When you’re on the road, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same than paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times, waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, make use of the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV is an excellent method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips 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. Be sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations, you can often get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals on luggage for your next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.