When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can eat up a big chunk of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best price for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with other families or friends. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas where you can save more and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. So, avoid tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. So be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
In addition, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.