While traveling, where you lay your head at night can consume a large portion of your budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate affordable, safe and comfortable accommodations.
Traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the most value for dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as much as we used to be, but we still want to save some dough.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on a room you don’t really need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and 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 prefer apartments due to their kitchens, separate bedrooms and laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with friends or other families. For short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, you should consider making more time in areas that will make your money go further and lowering your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Consider hotels located in central locations near public transportation, airports, and things to do like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay longer than one night
Some hotels provide better rates If you stay for two or more nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays therefore you might be able to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the check-in and check-out crowds on Monday and Friday.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. So, stay away from the crowds and save some money by travelling during the week.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between peak and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and have decent conditions.
Compare rates across various booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of vacation rental and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations early will save you money or, in other instances, waiting until the last minute can result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When you book directly with a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. There’s no way to know if they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Take advantage of credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, make use of these rewards to cover your lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items like resort or cleaning charges, so be certain to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for military personnel, students or AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains are found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or holiday rentals that aren’t well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re traveling with a pet Look for places that cater to pets. Some places offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer special discounts or deals that they promote via social media. So be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Housesitting or home swapping is the process of swapping houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on accommodation while still having your own space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV is an excellent way to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit different locations and have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers which aren’t accessible to the general public. They can also do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together as a package deal could occasionally save money on each of the components.
Search for hostels
Hostels are an affordable choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo are able to provide cheaper and exclusive accommodation options for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at reduced prices. Be sure to check these stores out before purchasing from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Just like with accommodation You can usually find good deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true of retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Take a look at buying second-hand or recycled luggage. It’s a great method to save on top-quality brands and you may be able to find gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay have good options and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing security and comfort. If you do a little investigation and creativity, you can find the perfect place to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains on luggage for your next travels. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings late or at the last minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, as well as trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.