While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could take up a significant portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
We find that traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the best price for our money. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over time. In the case of longer travel, we’d prefer apartments as they come with kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with friends or other families. However, for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the world, try spending more time in places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay at least two nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. So, avoid tourist crowds, and also save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will get you a better deal and other times waiting till the very last moment could get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel afraid to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. And many times, they can be 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 make use of them to pay for lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels might charge additional fees for things like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Find discounts or promotions
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions for things like students, military personnel, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or special offers which they promote through 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 exchange houses with another person and live in their home while they live in yours. It can be a wonderful option to save money on housing while enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is the best way to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Additionally, they are able to perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental car together as a package deal could often save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a home for a large number of people.
For your convenience, Here are some suggestions to 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 prior to purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Like with accommodations You can usually get good bargains on luggage during sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you could find gently used luggage in near perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find an ideal place to stay within your budget and incredible deals in luggage to take on your next travels. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.