If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options – we want to get the most value for dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with other families or friends. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times staying up to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV is the best way to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips for finding 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. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of research and creativity you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next trip. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings 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 stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.