When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best value for money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over time. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering your standards 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 that are close to airports, public transportation and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times staying up to the end of the day may score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges So be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote via social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with a different person, allowing you to reside in their house while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people renting a campervan or RV is a great method to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms 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 complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually find good deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.