While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Look for places 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. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds 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 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 not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances staying up until the last minute may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid 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
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees Be certain to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another person, allowing you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world 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. 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 often save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy 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 during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and creativity it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.