When you’re on the road, where you lay your head in the night can consume a large portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options We want to get the best value for budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched the way we travel over the years. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with other families or friends. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the world, try spending more time in 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 find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central areas near airports, public transportation, and things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. There are times when you can stay for four nights and pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay 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 on weekdays than weekends. Also, try to get away from all the tourists and spare some money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy a pleasant weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price and other times waiting to the end of the day could result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra 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 houses, are ideal for groups or families. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that has travel rewards, make use of the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may provide special discounts or deals for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is when you swap houses with someone else and reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV could be the best method to save money on accommodation. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the rise of boutique hostels there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
As a bonus Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is particularly true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great option to save money on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice comfort and safety. With a bit of research and creativity, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.