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. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
Traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments due to their 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 hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around 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’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting till the very last moment may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts which they promote via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person and live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family, renting a campervan or RV is the best option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private 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 retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and creativity you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget and incredible deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.