If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, consider spending more time in 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 logical to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times waiting until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request more value or amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can 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 cleaning or resort fees, so be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals which they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via 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 stay in their home while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group, renting a campervan or RV could be the best way to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This can be a great way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the fullest.