If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used do, yet we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able 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.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save some 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 in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times, waiting till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
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 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.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use the rewards for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they promote through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and creativity, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.