If you’re traveling the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to live 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 the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and 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 planning an extended trip across the world, try taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discount for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price or, in other instances staying up till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request more value or features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals which they promote on social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another person and stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best way to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals 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 as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to go through these stores before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.