If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where you can save more and lower 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 if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where 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 to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request 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 homes, can be a great option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with someone else and live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent way to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services 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 whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like 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.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and creativity it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget and incredible deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.