When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- 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 a 15% discount on the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout 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 friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places 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 all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and other 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. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to get away from all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
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) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote on social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with a different person and stay in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
In addition, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of investigation and creativity you can locate a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.