When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to 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 throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive 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 off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times, waiting till the very last moment may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
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 be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping 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 having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV is a great method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and 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 public. They can also 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.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers 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 you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.