While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option We want to get the most value for dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we still need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations throughout the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places where your money goes further and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, stay away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times waiting till the very last moment can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request more value or features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. So 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, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is the best way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers 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 flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together 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. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy from a traditional department store.
Look for off-season sales
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 especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on top-quality brands and you could find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also 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 imagination, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing bargains on luggage for your next travels. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.