While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used be, but we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up till the very last moment can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. Make sure you be following them on 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 live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you 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 check these stores out before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often get good bargains on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.