If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, consider making more time in areas where you can save more and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer 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.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price and other times waiting until the last minute can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote via social media. 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 when you swap houses with someone else and stay in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option 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 as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV could be a great method to save money on accommodations. 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 deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget and incredible discounts in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.