If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lowering 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 everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains 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 your pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests who have 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.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person and stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on housing while being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV is a great option to save on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups. With the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to 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. Be sure to go through these stores before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. 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 trip. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.