If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really like isn’t the same than paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where your money goes further 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 logical to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money, while other times, waiting until the last minute can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with another person, allowing you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people renting a campervan or RV is a great way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions 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 for sale at a discount. Make sure you check these stores out prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
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 the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, 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 creativity, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.