If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used be, but we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, consider spending more time in places where you can save more and lowering 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 in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of these rewards to cover your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise on social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person and reside in their house while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be a great method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.