If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer 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. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the world, try making more time in areas 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 find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll 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 on weekends. Also, try to get away from tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discounts on your next stay.
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.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra 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 an ideal option for groups or families. They can be 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 utilize these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people renting a campervan or RV can be a great method to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate a great accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals on luggage for your next journey. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.