While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
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 some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal and other times, waiting until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking more 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 your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with a different person which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV could be an excellent method to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions 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 from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. 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 refurbished luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and creativity, you can find a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.