While traveling the place you rest your head during the night could consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used do, yet we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. However, 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 more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities, like beaches, restaurants, 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 nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times waiting till the very last moment can get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at 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 a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with someone else and reside in their house while they live in yours. This can be a great option to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best option to save on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t offered 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 in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find the perfect location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next travels. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.