If you’re traveling, where you lay your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much 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 few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over time. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and reduce your expectations 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 all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book 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 during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times, waiting to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with someone else and stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV can be the best option to save on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually find good 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 used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.