If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the best value for dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates 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 offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discounts on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times staying up till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be 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 ideal for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards 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 sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for 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 well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they advertise via social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with a different person and reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent way to save money on accommodation. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together in a bundle deal can often save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to go through these stores before purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t 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 also get amazing discounts on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.