While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to live depends 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
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the globe, you should consider spending more time in places that will make your money go 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 pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. So, avoid tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances staying up till the very last moment can get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are ideal for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, utilize them to pay for lodging and save money.
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 making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with a pet consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they advertise on social media. So be sure to 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 a different person and reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent way to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
In addition, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and imagination, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.