If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the most value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations 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 located far from everything , and you’ll need to pay more 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 longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price and other times staying up to the end of the day can score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with someone else, allowing you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great option to save money on accommodation while still 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 is a great option to save on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate a great accommodation within your budget and incredible deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.