When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used do, yet we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of 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 less expensive during the week than weekends. Also, try to stay away from the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times staying up till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel 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 offer special discounts or deals that they promote through social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with someone else and reside in their house while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
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 reduced prices. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the fullest.