While traveling the place you rest your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable places to stay.
For us, traveling with kids doesn’t always mean choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the most price for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used be, but we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting a 15% discount on an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same as paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on lodging and to get a place you’re happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we prefer apartments because they have kitchens, separate bedrooms , and laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost of our trip with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning an extended trip around the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to choose a hotel that is cheap in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts when you stay two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three nights.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the check-in and check-out crowds on Fridays and Mondays.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper on weekdays than weekends. So, stay away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
The off-season is the most enjoyable season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between the peak season and off-peak), you can reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not just book on the first site you come across. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or facilities. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. In many cases, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit card with travel rewards, utilize the rewards for your hotel and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be certain to read the fine print before booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals are found in smaller, independent hotels or holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning to travel with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals which they promote through social media. So be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with another person and reside in their house while they reside in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family renting a campervan or RV is a great option to save on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and even have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Additionally, they are able to conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can often save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a space in a homeowner’s home or renting a house for a large group.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Like with accommodations, you can often get great deals on luggage during 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
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. It’s a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage that is in perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate an ideal place to stay within your budget, and also get amazing discounts on luggage for your next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, or exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms You can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the fullest.