While traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the most value for budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with other families or friends. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, consider making more time in areas 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’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded 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 certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees Be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, 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 have special deals or discounts which they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with a different person which allows you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent option to save on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage during 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
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.