If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. So, get away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times, waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize these rewards to cover your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote via social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with someone else and stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family, renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
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 whole 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 stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.