When you’re on the road, where you lay your head during the night could eat up a big chunk of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding secure, affordable and cozy places to stay.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option – we want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to have been, however we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- The size of your team
- Your interests
Remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find the perfect place to stay.
As our family, we’ve shifted around our accommodations throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the costs with our friends or families. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel located far from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and other things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for 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 the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs 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 on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can get away from tourist crowds, and also save money by travelling during the week.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the most value for money.
Join loyalty programs and sign up
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards and discounts for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price or, in other instances waiting to the end of the day may score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be scared to request an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are a great option for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges So be sure to check the fine print prior to making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend Look for places that cater to pets. These places may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote via social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with someone else and live in their home while they stay in yours. This is a fantastic option to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with a family or group, renting a campervan or RV is the best option to save on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. They can also conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each of the components.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique it is possible to find comfortable, clean, and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and exclusive accommodation options like staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
In addition, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to check these stores out before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on the top brands, and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect condition. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In conclusion, finding cheap lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a bit of research and creativity, you can find the perfect location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By looking at prices by signing up to loyalty programs, booking late or at the last minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to increase your spending and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.