If you’re traveling, where you lay your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost 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 taking an extended trip across the world, try making more time in areas 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 pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near public transportation, airports and other things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. So, avoid the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money and other times, waiting until the last minute may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation 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
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they advertise on social media. Be sure to 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 a different person and live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on accommodation while still enjoying your personal 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 is the best way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.