If you’re traveling, where you lay your head during the night could take up a significant portion of the budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe places to stay.
For us, traveling with children isn’t always going for the cheapest options We want to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as much as we used to do, yet we still need to cut costs.
The place and the way you decide to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your style of travel and level of comfort
- How big is your crew
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t need isn’t as effective than paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. In the case of longer travel, we’re more comfortable in apartments because they have bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost 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 an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas that will make your money go further and reduce your expectations in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not sensible to find a cheap hotel located far from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas near public transportation, airports and activities, like beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for two or more nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three.
Hit in the Hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays, which means you’re likely to get a bargain. If you decide to stay on a Sunday, you’ll be able to avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
The weekdays are the best days to be a part of your life.
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are more affordable during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can get away from the crowds and save some money by going during the week.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive in the off-season. If you can travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll cut costs, avoid crowds and still enjoy a pleasant conditions.
Compare the prices of different booking websites
Do not just book on the first website you find. Compare prices across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best price.
Make sure you sign up for loyalty programs
Many vacation rental and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can offer a better price, while other times staying up until the last minute can score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel scared to request an improved rate or additional features. You never know, they may just agree!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be an ideal option for groups or families. And many times, they can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
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 like cleaning or resort fees Be sure to check the fine print prior to booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer specials or discounts for 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 popular.
Make sure you find pet-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning a trip with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These establishments may offer special deals or discounts for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they advertise via social media. Be sure to keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
You can try a home-sitting job or a house-sitting
Housesitting or home swapping is when you exchange houses with another person and live in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family hiring a campervan, or RV can be an excellent method to save money on lodging. In addition, you’ll have the chance to explore different places and also have the convenience of your own vehicle all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and deals that aren’t available to the general people. They can also perform 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 cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the popularity of hostels that are boutique there are often cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a whole home for a large number of people.
In addition, here are some helpful tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as 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 find good deals on luggage during the seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or recycled luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on high-end brands. You might be able to locate lightly used luggage in excellent condition. Websites such as Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. If you do a little research and imagination you can locate 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, booking early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, or exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the fullest.