While traveling the place you rest your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we still would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over time. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the globe, consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and other things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they advertise via social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This is a fantastic way 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 with a family or group renting a campervan or RV is a great option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle 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 perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.