If you’re traveling, where you lay your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, 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 to be, but we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. Our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering 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 choose a hotel that is cheap located far from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates when you stay two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. So, avoid the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a 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 as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances, waiting to the end of the day can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges Be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts which they promote on social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is a great method to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find cozy, clean and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores 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 traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next travels. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.