If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things 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 than paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to 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 choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to score a good deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. So, stay 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 more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
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 in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with someone else and stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be a great way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general public. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains 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 refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.