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 secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports and other things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal, while other times staying up until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. They are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
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 guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals which they promote through social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another 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.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV could be the best way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you go through these stores before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. If you do a little research and creativity you can locate an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.