While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over time. For longer trips, we prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. However, for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lower your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation and other things to do, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discount on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times waiting until the last minute can result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be certain to check the fine print prior to booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise on social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with another person, allowing you to live in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic method to save 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 group of people hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure you go through these stores before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a little bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.