When you’re on the road, where you lay your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t want isn’t as good as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip across the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more 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 in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas near public transportation, airports and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Stay at in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak), you can reduce costs, avoid crowds and still have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals which they promote on social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family renting a campervan or RV can be a great method to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and 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 in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus 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 typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal accommodation 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, and looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.