While traveling the place you rest your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be 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.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discount 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 to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. They can be less expensive 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 money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees 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 discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person and live in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great 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 family or group renting a campervan or RV is a great option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could often save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores before 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 particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a bit of research and imagination it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.