While traveling, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. For longer trips, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak), you can save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal, while other times, waiting to the end of the day can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. So be sure to be following 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 a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on housing while being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people renting a campervan or RV is an excellent option to save on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together in a bundle deal can often save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during 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 refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great way to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find a great accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.