While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for 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 in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll 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 cheaper during the week than on weekends. Also, try to avoid all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price, while other times, waiting till the very last moment can get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request 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 houses, are a great option for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote through social media. Make sure you 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 a different person and stay in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.