When you’re on the road the place you rest your head at night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do such as 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 only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can save money while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times staying up to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional 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 groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they promote through social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family, renting a campervan or RV is a great option to save on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, 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 can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.