If you’re traveling the place you rest your head during the night could consume a large portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however 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 style of travel and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost with friends or other families. But for shorter stays, we’re 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 reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds 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 on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to avoid tourist crowds, and also save 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 during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll reduce costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discount for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price, while other times staying up to the end of the day may result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees, so be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with your pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on lodging while also being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV is an excellent option to save 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 often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car as a package deal could often save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some helpful 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 at reduced prices. Make sure you 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 the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate the perfect place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.