While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best price for our dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used do, yet we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really like isn’t the same than paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with friends or other families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, consider 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 find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Go to in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to find a deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
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 the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards and discounts on future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances staying up to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or amenities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for families or groups. They are less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of them to pay for your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions 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 vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. Some places provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they advertise through social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person and reside in their house while they reside in yours. This can be a great option to save money on housing while having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people, renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental car together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a whole house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to look these stores up before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing the comfort or security. With a bit of investigation and creativity, you can find a great accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.