While traveling the place you rest your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, consider spending more time in 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 doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. 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.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times, waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, 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 your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they advertise 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
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
In addition, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation You can usually get good bargains 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 used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.