If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as down for 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 live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do like 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 pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy 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 lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, avoid tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances staying up to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your 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 certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t 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 have special deals or discounts that they advertise on social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person and live in their home while they reside 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 with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some helpful 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 look these stores up before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales 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.