When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs 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 less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, avoid all the tourists and spare 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 in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can save money while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal and other times, waiting until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request more value or 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 houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees, 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, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via 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 another person, allowing you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV is the best option to save on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and also 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 people. Plus, they can perform 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.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. 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 method to save on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.