While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best value for dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over time. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to 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 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 on weekends. Also, try to get away from tourist crowds, and also save some 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 can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price, while other times staying up until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with someone else which allows you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent way to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation 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 do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to find 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 you go through these stores before purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This can be a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next travels. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.