When you’re on the road, where you lay your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- 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 an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more expensive 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 in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of 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 Be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts which they promote via social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with another person, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be a great option to save on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options like 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 to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.