If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over 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. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and lowering 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 have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and 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 can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price, while other times, waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. Make sure you keep up with them via 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 someone else and reside in their house while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent option to save on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This can be a great way to save money on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.