While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most value for money. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used have been, however we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining 15% off a room you don’t really 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 money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations over the years. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lower 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 everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central locations near airports, public transportation, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals when you stay more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of 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 cheaper during the week than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll save money, avoid crowds and still enjoy decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times waiting till the very last moment could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers that they advertise via social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with a different person, allowing you to stay in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is a great way to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to visit different locations and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save cash on each component.
Look for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find cozy, clean and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to check these stores out before purchasing at a department store that is more traditional.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This can be a great method to save on high-end brands. You could find lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. With a bit of research and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms You can increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.