While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discount for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times waiting till the very last moment can 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 more value or features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, utilize them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to read the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else and live in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions 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 discounted prices. Be sure to go through these stores 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 sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little research and creativity it is possible to find the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.