If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
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 hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places 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 doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times waiting until the last minute can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they advertise on social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be the best method to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often 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 flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you look these stores up before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.