When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
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 so keen on roughing it as we used be, but we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances staying up to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they promote through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with another person which allows you to live in their home while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group, renting a campervan or RV could be a great way to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores prior to purchasing from a traditional 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 especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination, you can find the perfect place to stay within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the maximum.