If you’re traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
We find that traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the most price for our budget. We’re not as down for roughing it as much as we used to be, but we need to cut costs.
Where and how you choose to live depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- The size of your team
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off the room you don’t need isn’t as effective as paying the full cost for a place you do. Therefore, our aim is to help you save money on lodging and to get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted the way we travel over time. 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 cost of our trip with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lowering your standards in more expensive 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 if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and activities like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay for four nights, and only pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to score a good deal. Also, if you book on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of 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 more affordable during the week than weekends. Also, try to get away from all the tourists and spare some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are more affordable during off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll reduce costs as well as avoid crowds, and have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Do not book on the first website you find. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discount on future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal and other times staying up to the end of the day may get you a discount.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be a great option for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges, so be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students, or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer discounts or special offers for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote via social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with someone else 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 with a family or group, renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to explore different places and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and special offers that aren’t available to the general people. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups. 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 can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out prior to purchasing from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to get good bargains on luggage in the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or used luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage in perfect quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of research and imagination, you can find a great location to stay within your budget and incredible bargains on luggage for your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the maximum.