When you’re on the road, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off 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 money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas where you can save more 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 logical 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 near airports, public transportation and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money and other times waiting till the very last moment can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request more value or amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges So be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another person and stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent method to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.