If you’re traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best value for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost 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 taking an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in places that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do, like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for more than two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to stay away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low), you can cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money and other times, waiting until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be scared to request a better rate or extra features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they are less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can utilize them to pay for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with a pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places provide special discounts or deals for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they advertise on social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with a different person, allowing you to stay in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV is the best way to save money on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible 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 vehicle together as a package deal could often save you money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. With the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to look these stores up before you buy from a traditional department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often get good bargains on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on high-end brands. You might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect accommodation within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.