While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best price for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we 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 travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the world, try making more time in areas where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals 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 the process of swapping houses with another person, allowing you to reside in their house while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you look these stores up before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.