If you’re traveling, where you lay your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most value for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good 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 over time. For longer trips, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Also, try to avoid all the tourists and spare money by travelling 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 the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier 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 you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges So be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. Be sure to 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 when you swap houses with a different person and reside in their house while they live in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people renting a campervan or RV could be a great method to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to 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 to check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during 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 recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal location to stay within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.