When you’re on the road the place you rest your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find affordable, safe and comfortable accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option and we’re looking to get the best value for budget. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used to have been, however we would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- The size of your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective as paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to assist you in saving cash on accommodation and find an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed the way we travel over time. In the case of longer travel, we prefer apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the costs with friends or other families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in hotels or family-friendly hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip around the globe, consider spending more time in places where your money goes further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from all amenities and you need to spend extra on transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals If you stay for at least two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able to score a good deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between the peak season and off-peak) it is possible to reduce costs, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare prices across multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts on future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances waiting till the very last moment could get you a discount.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be a great option for groups or families. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Make use of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, use the rewards for your lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be sure to be aware of the fine print before booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer specials or discounts on items such as military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in vacation rentals that aren’t as well-known.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These places may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote on social media. Make sure you follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with a different person and reside in their house while they reside in yours. This is a fantastic way to save money on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with a group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is a great option to save on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight and rental car together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each of the components.
Find hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. And with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, like staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some helpful tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Check out sales that are off-season
Like with accommodations It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true of the stores that sell travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. It’s a great way to save money on top-quality brands and you may be able to find lightly used luggage in excellent quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable lodging and discounted luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and safety. With a little bit of research and creativity it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next travels. By comparison shopping and signing up for loyalty programs, booking in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and trying alternative options like holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the highest degree.