When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style 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 need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their 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. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for 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 score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent 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 that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price and other times, waiting to the end of the day can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts which they promote via social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with a different person and stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent option to save on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places 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 public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often get great 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 used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. It’s a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.