While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further 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 pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to score a good deal. If you decide to 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 some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the 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 have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal and other times, waiting till the very last moment could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request more value or features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may 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. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with another person, allowing you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. 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 sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a 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 for sale at a discount. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of investigation and creativity you can locate a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings 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 increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.