When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. Our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel throughout the years. For longer trips, 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 of our trip with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering your standards 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 located far from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. So, get away from tourist crowds, and also save money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money and other times waiting till the very last moment may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly with a hotel , or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be ideal 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, utilize these rewards to cover your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals 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 places may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or special offers which they promote on social media. Make sure you be following 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 a different person which allows you to stay in their home while they live in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some helpful tips for finding 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 traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for 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 perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next travels. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.