While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. But for short 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 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’s not logical to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, avoid the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money or, in other instances waiting until the last minute may result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with 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 resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts which they promote through 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 swap houses with another person which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people renting a campervan or RV is a great method to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions 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 reduced prices. Make sure to look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This can be a great way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.