When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, consider making more time in areas where you can save more 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 sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy 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 Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up until the last minute can result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person and live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent way to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t available 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 vehicle together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like 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 complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often get great deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.