While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with other families or friends. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money and other times, waiting to the end of the day can result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts which they promote via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else and live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on housing while being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group, renting a campervan or RV is a great way to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to go through these stores prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and creativity you can locate the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.