When you’re on the road the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to stay away from 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 in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can save money, avoid crowds and still have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times staying up until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV can be a great option to save on accommodations. 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 special offers 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 together in a bundle deal can often save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on top-quality brands and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.