When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with other families or friends. For short 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 spending more time in places where you can save more and lowering 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 in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid 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 some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price and other times waiting till the very last moment could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
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 your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
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 who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote via 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 when you swap houses with a different person which allows you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV is a great 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 often have access to 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
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some 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 reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores before you buy from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-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 way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.