When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the most price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we still want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to 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. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lower 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 located far from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price and other times, waiting till the very last moment could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals which they promote via social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best option to save on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can 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 comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete 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 such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.