While traveling and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean choosing the most expensive options – we want to get the best value for our budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used have been, however we want to save some dough.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your team
- Your interests are important to you
Just remember that getting 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. So, our goal is to make it easier for you to save cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As a family, we’ve switched around our accommodations throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the cost with our friends or families. For shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, consider making more time in areas where your money goes further and lowering 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 find a cheap hotel located far from everything , and you’ll need to spend extra on transportation. Look for places in central areas that are close to public transportation, airports, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit 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 crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than weekends. So, get away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) it is possible to cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare rates across various booking websites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where you can earn points or discounts on your next stay.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money and other times staying up to the end of the day can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly with a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for families or groups. And many times, they are less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can make use of these rewards to cover your hotel and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts on items such as students, military personnel, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller, independent hotels or rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they advertise through social media. Make sure you be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is the process of swapping houses with a different person and reside in their house while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group or family, renting a campervan or RV could be a great method to save money on accommodations. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could sometimes save you money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique, you can often find safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing services
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you go through these stores before you buy from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or recycled luggage. This can be a great option to save money on high-end brands. You could find gently used luggage in near 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 the comfort or security. If you do a little investigation and creativity you can locate the perfect location to stay within your budget as well as amazing deals in luggage to take on your next journey. By comparing prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as exploring other options such as rental homes and home sharing platforms, you can increase your spending and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.