While traveling the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel throughout the years. 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. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more 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 only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout 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 cheaper during the week than on weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save 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’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times staying up to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for more value or features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts which they promote through 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
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person and live in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family, renting a campervan or RV is an excellent option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car in a bundle deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like 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
Similar to accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also 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. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.