If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the world, try making more time in areas where you can save more and reduce your expectations 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 in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout 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. Therefore, you can stay away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price or, in other instances waiting until the last minute may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for more value or features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they advertise via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person and live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore 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 house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some 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. Make sure to look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation You can usually get great 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. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.