While traveling, where you lay your head during the night could consume a large portion of the budget. However, don’t fret because there are plenty of options for finding budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodation.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the best price for our budget. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and level of comfort
- Your size team
- Your interests
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. So, our goal is to assist you in saving money on accommodation and get the perfect place to stay.
As a family, we’ve switched up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments due to their bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Plus, we can split the costs with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip across the globe, consider taking a longer trip to places 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 find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to pay more for transportation. Find hotels in central areas that are close to airports, public transportation and other things to do such as restaurants, the beach and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Some hotels provide better rates if you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay for four nights and pay for three.
Stay at your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays, therefore you might be able to find a deal. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In some cities, like Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than on weekends. Therefore, you can stay away from all the tourists and spare cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s not a surprise that hotels are cheaper in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low) you’ll cut costs as well as avoid crowds, and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Don’t just book through the first website you find. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which you can earn points and discounts on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can save you money or, in other instances, waiting till the very last moment could score you a discounted rate.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t feel intimidated to ask for a better rate or extra amenities. You never know, they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or houses, are a great option for families or groups. They can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Take advantage of rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, use them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels might charge additional fees for things such as resort or cleaning fees So be certain to be aware of the fine print before making your booking.
Look for promotions or discounts
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer promotions or discounts for military personnel, students and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found at smaller hotel chains, or in holiday rentals that aren’t popular.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning to travel with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. Some places offer special deals or discounts for guests with pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they advertise on social media. Be sure to be following them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else which allows you to live in their home while they live in yours. This can be a great way to save money on accommodation while still enjoying your personal space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV is the best way to save money on lodging. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and even have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents are often able to access discounts and offers that aren’t offered to the general people. Plus, they can conduct the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can often save you cash on each component.
Find hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly alternative for solo travelers as well as groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and secure options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private space in a homeowner’s home or renting a whole house for a large gathering.
As a bonus here are some tips for finding cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers like T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage at discounted prices. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy at a department store that is more traditional.
Check out sales that are off-season
Similar to accommodation, you can often get great deals on luggage during seasonal sales or the off-season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy used or refurbished
Consider buying used or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay are good choices, as are also local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding affordable accommodations and cheap luggage does not have to mean sacrificing comfort and safety. With a bit of research and imagination it is possible to find the perfect location to stay within your budget as well as amazing bargains regarding luggage and luggage options for the next travels. By looking at prices, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations early or last-minute booking, taking advantage of sales 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 maximum.