While traveling the place you rest your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
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 team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote through social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV could be the best option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered 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 as a package deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.