While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 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 assist you in saving money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more expensive 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 all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal or, in other instances waiting until the last minute may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are a great option for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize these rewards to cover your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote on social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with a different person and stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms 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 house for a large group.
In addition, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually get good bargains on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.