While traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get 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 as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation and other things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely 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 cheaper on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times waiting till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra amenities. 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 a great option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special discounts or deals that they advertise via social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people, renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure to look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get great deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This can be a great way to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination it is possible to find a great place to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.