If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we still need to cut costs.
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
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more 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 pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
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. So, avoid tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price and other times waiting to the end of the day can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. 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 ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts which 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, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on accommodation while still having your own 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 also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide 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 gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate a great place to stay within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales 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 fullest.