If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we still want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for two or more 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 busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
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 get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
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.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price, while other times, waiting to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places 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 be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with another person, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic method to save 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 can be an excellent option to save on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try 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.
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 discounted prices. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the maximum.