When you’re on the road, where you lay your head at night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
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 crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over time. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. However, for short 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 that will make your money go further and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times, waiting until the last minute can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts 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 consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers which they promote through 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 exchange houses with a different person which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV can be the best method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world 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 deals 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 can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination 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 reservations late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.