While traveling the place you rest your head at night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. So, our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we’d 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. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try taking a longer trip to places 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 choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to 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 during the week than weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances staying up till the very last moment may score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra 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 ideal for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they promote through social media. Be sure to 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 another person and 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 your family or group renting a campervan or RV can be a great way to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.