When you’re on the road the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts which they promote through social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person and stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is a great method to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible 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 car in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some tips to help you find 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 check these stores out prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations, you can often get great deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and imagination you can locate a great place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.