When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head at night can eat up a big chunk of your budget. But don’t worry, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most value for budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a room you really want. So, our goal is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations over time. For longer trips, we’d prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further 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 in a location that is miles from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and activities like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for at least two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid all the tourists and spare money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare the prices of different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discount on your next stay.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances staying up to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for more value or amenities. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or houses, are an ideal option for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize these rewards to cover your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like students, military personnel, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re traveling with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with a different person and stay in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV is an excellent way to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to travel around the world and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general public. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car as a package deal could occasionally save cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. And with the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a house for a large group.
In addition, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you check these stores out before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage during the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy used or refurbished
You should consider purchasing used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice security and comfort. If you do a little research and creativity it is possible to find a great accommodation within your budget and incredible bargains in luggage to take on your next trip. 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 to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the fullest.