When you’re on the road, where you lay your head at night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most value for our money. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to help you save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, 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 to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to 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 a Sunday, you’ll be able to 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 cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to get 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 tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to save money while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points or discount on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money and other times staying up until the last minute can get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for more value or features. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize these rewards to cover lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they promote on social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with a different person and live in their home while they stay in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV could be a great method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to look these stores up before purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains 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 used 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 there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the fullest.