If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options – we want to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really want isn’t as good than paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and 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 an extended journey around the globe, you should consider 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 choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. If you decide to 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 certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from all the tourists and spare some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price and other times waiting till the very last moment may get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional 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 a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they promote through social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with another person, allowing you to stay in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV can be a great option to save on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a bit of investigation and creativity you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next travels. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.