If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet 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 style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lower your standards 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 such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can save money while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment may score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they promote on social media. Be sure to follow them on 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 someone else and live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family, renting a campervan or RV is a great method to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services 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 whole house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.