If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
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 hotel you want. So, our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where you can save more and lower your standards in more costly 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 everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and other things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout 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 more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts which they promote through social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with another person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as 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 for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on top-quality brands and 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 conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next trip. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.