If you’re traveling the place you rest your head during the night could eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly 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 lower your standards in more costly countries.
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. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to save money, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money, while other times waiting until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV is the best way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers 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 you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get great 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
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next journey. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.