While traveling the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we still would like to save money.
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
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, 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 shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities, like beaches, restaurants, 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 four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may 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 Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times staying up until the last minute may result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals which they promote through social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with a different person, allowing you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as 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 you buy from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.