If you’re traveling the place you rest your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of ways to find budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used be, but we would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go 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 choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from the crowds and save some money by going 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 can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. 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 vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which guests can accumulate points or discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times staying up till the very last moment could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of these rewards to cover your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals which they promote through social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you swap houses with a different person and live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV could be a great way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive 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 help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next travels. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.