If you’re traveling, where you lay your head in the night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the most value for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used do, yet we still would like to save money.
The place and the way you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. Our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As as a family, we’ve changed around our accommodations over time. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with other families or friends. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
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 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 if it’s miles away from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports and other things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can offer a better price or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for 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 a great option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use 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 Be sure to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotels, independent establishments or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote through social media. So be sure to be following them on 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 someone else, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. This can be a great option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is the best method to save money on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able 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 offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some 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 discounted prices. Make sure to go through these stores before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation You can usually get great deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination you can locate an ideal location to stay within your budget and incredible deals on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.