If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with other families or friends. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. 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 vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances staying up until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still being in your 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 could be a great way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations 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
A hotel, flight and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you check these stores out before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.