While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
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. Look for places in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the lines at check-ins and outs 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 more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to stay away from tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances staying up till the very last moment could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for more value or 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 groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees Be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with someone else, allowing you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great option to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV is an excellent way to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able 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 special offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. 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 can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips 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 for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on top-quality brands and you could find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find the perfect accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.