If you’re traveling the place you rest your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best price for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good than paying full price for a hotel you want. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places 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 choose a hotel that is cheap located far from all amenities and you need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to avoid all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) you’ll save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times, waiting to the end of the day could score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request more value or facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance 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 available to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. This can be a great option to save money on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are 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 security and comfort. With a little bit of research and creativity it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.