When you’re on the road the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always taking the cheapest option – we want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to be, but we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay will depend on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. For short stays, we’re 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 lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas near airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than weekends. Also, try to stay away from the crowds and save money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal, while other times staying up until the last minute could result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for groups or families. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to read the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller, independent hotels or vacation rentals that aren’t as popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may provide special discounts or deals for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they advertise through social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with another person, allowing you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also being in your space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent way to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together in a bundle deal can sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large gathering.
For your convenience, here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up before 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 find good deals on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of investigation and creativity it is possible to find an ideal location to stay within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next journey. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the maximum.