While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head in the night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option We want to get the most price for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used to do, yet we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas 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’s not logical to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount 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 may score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be certain to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties have special deals or discounts that they advertise through social media. Be sure to be following 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 someone else, allowing you to reside in their house while they live in yours. This can be a great method to save on housing while 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 an excellent option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the maximum.