While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and lower your standards in more costly 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 have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds 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 more affordable during the week than weekends. So, get away from the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times waiting until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals which they promote via social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as 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 method to save on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also 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 little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.