If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over time. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. 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, consider taking a longer trip to places 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 doesn’t make sense 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 locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy 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 check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can 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 during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people, renting a campervan or RV could be a great option to save on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.