While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option We want to get the best value for dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout 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. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save 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’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times, waiting until the last minute could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they promote through social media. Make sure you 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 method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could often save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to look these stores up before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.