If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most value for money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a few things 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 a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll save money, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discount on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances staying up until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize them to pay for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person and reside in their house while they live in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have your own transportation all 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 conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to go through these stores before you buy from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity, you can find the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.