When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout 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 costs with other families or friends. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places that will make your money go further 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 in a location that is miles from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times waiting till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. Make sure you follow 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 which allows you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV could be the best option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage in near 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 accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.