If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to have been, however we still would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to pick a budget hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can 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 in the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can cut costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times, waiting to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use these rewards to cover your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees Be certain to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. 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 promote on social media. 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 when you exchange houses with another person and live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on housing while being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people, renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent way to save money on accommodation. Plus, 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 people. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
As a bonus 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. Be sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
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 excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and creativity it is possible to find the perfect place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By comparing prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the 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 trip to the highest degree.