While traveling the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where you can save more and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times, waiting till the very last moment can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may 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. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person, allowing you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great way to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent option to save on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some tips 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 at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.