If you’re traveling the place you rest your head in the night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
We find that traveling with kids doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest options and we’re looking to get the best value for our dollars. We’re not as keen on roughing it as we used be, but we would like to save money.
Where and how you choose to stay will depend on a number of factors like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size crew
- Your interests
Just remember that getting a 15% discount on a room you don’t really like isn’t the same as paying the full cost for a hotel you want. So, our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As our family, we’ve shifted up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we’d prefer 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. But for shorter stays, we’re happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended trip around the world, try making more time in areas 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’s not logical to find a cheap hotel in a location that is miles from all amenities and you need to pay more for transportation. Look for places in central locations near airports, public transportation and activities, like restaurants, the beach, and parks.
Stay more than one night
A lot of hotels offer discounts If you stay for more than two nights. In some cases, you can stay four nights and only pay for three.
Go to your hotel Sunday morning
Hotels are less busy on Sundays, which means you’re likely to find a deal. Plus, if you stay on a Sunday, you’ll stay clear of the crowds at check-in and checkout on Monday and Friday.
Your weekdays can be your best friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are less expensive on weekdays than weekends. Therefore, you can avoid the crowds and save some cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is the best-season
It’s no surprise that hotels are cheaper during the off-season. If you can travel in the shoulder season (between high and low) you’ll save money, avoid crowds and still have decent conditions.
Compare prices across different booking websites
Do not book on the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many hotels and vacation rental companies offer loyalty programs in which guests can accumulate points or discount for future stays.
Book early or last-minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money or, in other instances staying up until the last minute could get you a discount.
Do not be afraid of negotiating
If you are booking directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for more value or facilities. You never know, they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Rentals for vacation, such as apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. They can be cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you have a credit or debit card with travel rewards, utilize them to pay for your lodging and save more.
Check for hidden fees
Some booking websites or hotels may charge extra fees for items like cleaning or resort fees So be certain to be aware of the fine print before making a booking.
Check for discounts or offers
A lot of hotels and vacation rental properties offer discounts or promotions on items such as military personnel, students, and AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotel chains, or in rental properties that aren’t as popular.
Find pet-friendly places
If you’re planning a trip with a furry friend consider looking for accommodations that are pet-friendly. These establishments may offer discounts or special offers for pet owners.
Utilize social media
Many vacation and hotel accommodations have special deals or discounts that they promote through social media. So be sure to be following them on 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 stay in their home while they reside in yours. This can be a great method to save on lodging while also having your own space.
You might want to consider renting a campervan, or an RV
If you’re traveling with your group or family renting a campervan or RV can be the best way to save money on lodging. Plus, you’ll be able to visit different locations and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and offers that aren’t available to the general public. Plus, they can perform the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A flight, hotel, and rental vehicle together as a package deal can often save you cash on each component.
Search for hostels
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels, you can often find cozy, clean and safe options.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can offer more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, for example, staying in a room within a local’s home or renting a whole house for a large group.
In addition, here are some tips to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls often carry a selection of luggage for sale at a discount. Make sure you look these stores up before you buy from a department store.
Look for off-season sales
Just like with accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Consider buying used or used luggage. This is a fantastic method to save on high-end brands. You may be able to find gently used luggage that is in excellent condition. 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 accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t need to mean you sacrifice the comfort or security. With a bit of research and creativity, you can find an ideal location to stay within your budget, and also get amazing deals regarding luggage and luggage options for the next journey. By comparison shopping, signing up for loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute and taking advantage of specials and discounts, and trying alternative options like rental homes and home sharing platforms to stretch your budget further and enjoy your trip to the fullest.