While traveling the place you rest your head at night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most value for dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over time. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas 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 choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book 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 cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times staying up to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts which they promote on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person and reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on lodging while also enjoying your personal 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 can be an excellent option to save on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t available 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 as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large gathering.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate a great location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.