If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, consider 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 choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout 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 more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they promote on social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while 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 method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you look these stores up prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.