When you’re on the road the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over time. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation, and 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. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of 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. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times staying up to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they advertise 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
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with a different person which allows you to live in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best option to save on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive 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.
In addition, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage 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 accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find the perfect location to stay within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next trip. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.