If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the most value for budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places that will make your money go further 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 sensible to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and activities like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, avoid the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times, waiting to the end of the day can get you a discount.
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 features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of the rewards for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts for things like students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals which they promote on social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person which allows you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group renting a campervan or RV is an excellent way to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t offered 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 as a package deal can often save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to go through these stores before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations, you can often get great deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget and incredible discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.