While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and lowering 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 in a location that is miles 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 other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to get away from the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances waiting until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. 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 the process of swapping houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV could be the best way to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some helpful 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 reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.