While traveling, where you lay your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal, while other times, waiting till the very last moment may score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. They are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites 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
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for students, military personnel, 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 well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they advertise via social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family, renting a campervan or RV is a great way to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing deals in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.