When you’re on the road and you’re sleeping, the location you put your head during the night could consume a large portion from your spending budget. However, don’t fret because there are many options to locate secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always choosing the most expensive options and we’re looking to get the best value for our money. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we need to cut costs.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Just remember that getting an offer of 15% off a room you don’t really want isn’t as good as paying the full cost for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim is to make it easier for you to save money on accommodation and get a place you’re happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences over the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with our friends or families. But for short stays, we’re happy to stay in family-friendly hotels or hostels.
If you’re planning to take an extended journey around the world, try making more time in areas where you can save more and reduce your expectations in countries that are more expensive.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to choose a hotel that is cheap if it’s miles away from everything and you have to shell out more money for transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for at least two nights. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels tend to be less busy on Sundays, therefore you might be able to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the lines at check-ins and outs on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive during the week than on weekends. So, stay away from tourist crowds, and also save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll save money while avoiding crowds and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which members earn rewards or discounts for future stays.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances, waiting to the end of the day can result in a lower rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
When booking directly with a hotel , or vacation rental, don’t be afraid to ask for a better rate or extra features. 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 families or groups. In many cases, they can be cheaper than booking more hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit card that has travel rewards, use the rewards for your hotel and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra fees for items such as resort or cleaning fees So be sure to read the fine print before making your booking.
Check for discounts or offers
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the best bargains can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with a furry friend, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers which they promote through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is the process of swapping houses with a different person and stay in their home while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your group of people renting a campervan or RV could be an excellent option to save on accommodation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups of travelers. With the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and unique accommodation options, for example, staying in a room in a home owned by a local or renting a complete house for a large group.
As a bonus here are some tips to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls usually have a range of luggage at discounted prices. Be sure to look these stores up prior to purchasing from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation, you can often get good bargains on luggage in 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 used luggage. It’s a great option to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage that is in excellent quality. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and there are local classifieds as well as garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice security and comfort. With a little bit of research and imagination you can locate the perfect location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains in luggage to take on your next journey. By looking at prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations late or at the last minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or exploring other options such as home-sharing platforms and vacation rentals You can stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the highest degree.