While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where you can save more and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll reduce costs, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times staying up till the very last moment can 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 an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your lodging and save even more 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 be aware of the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers which they promote on social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with someone else and reside in their house while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family renting a campervan or RV could be the best option to save on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
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 at discounted prices. Make sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get good bargains 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
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals on luggage for your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the fullest.