When you’re on the road, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we still 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 style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over time. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, consider spending more time in places 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 doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid 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 on weekdays than weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal and other times waiting to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with a different person, allowing you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great method to save on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next trip. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.