If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, you should 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 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. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling 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 high and low) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts which they promote on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else and live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be a great method to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some tips to find 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 you buy from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.