When you’re on the road the place you rest your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of your budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places where you can save more and lower 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 pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more 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 pay for three.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs 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 on weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs where members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times waiting until the last minute may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional amenities. There’s no way to know if 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. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be sure to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or promotions for students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with your pet Look for places that cater to pets. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you exchange houses with someone else, allowing you to live in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be the best option to save on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers 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
A hotel, flight and rental vehicle together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and distinctive accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a complete house for a large group.
For your convenience, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is particularly true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination, you can find a great place to stay within your budget and incredible discounts on luggage for your next trip. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.