While traveling, where you lay your head in the night can take up a significant portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll 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 more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will offer a better price, while other times staying up until the last minute can get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer special discounts or deals that they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV can be a great way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all 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. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal could sometimes save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
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 complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and creativity it is possible to find the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts in luggage to take on your next trip. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.