If you’re traveling the place you rest your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the best value for dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Also, try to stay away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money and other times, waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple 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 even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote via social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with another person, allowing you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV could be a great way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often 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
A hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.