If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip 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 planning an extended trip around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) it is possible to save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price and other times, waiting to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise on social media. So 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 exchange houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This can be a great option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be a great way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
In addition, Here are some suggestions 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 check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great way to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as 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 investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.