When you’re on the road the place you rest your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe 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 as keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really like isn’t the same than paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim 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 the way we travel over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to get away from the crowds and save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discount on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can get you a better deal and other times staying up to the end of the day could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote through social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with a different person which allows you to live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on housing while having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is the best option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct 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.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some helpful 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 reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually find good deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.