If you’re traveling, where you lay your head in the night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations 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’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two 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 busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal and other times, waiting to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request more value or features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote through social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person and stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is the best method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and creativity it is possible to find a great location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.