When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas where you can save more and reduce your expectations in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak), you can reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times staying up to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request more value or 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 an ideal option for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals which they promote on social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also 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 offered to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and imagination, you can find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.