If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best value for budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over time. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to get away from the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times, waiting to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees, so be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person, allowing you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group renting a campervan or RV can be a great way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
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 may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.