While traveling, where you lay your head at night can take up a significant portion from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s many options to locate budget-friendly, comfortable and safe accommodations.
For us, traveling with children doesn’t mean going for the cheapest options We want to get the most value for our dollars. We’re not so keen on roughing it as we used do, yet we still want to save some dough.
Where and how you choose to live depends on a few things like:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- How big is your crew
- Your interests are important to you
Be aware that obtaining a 15% discount on the room you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a room you really want. Therefore, our aim 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 over the years. For longer trips, we’re more comfortable in apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Additionally, we can share the cost with other families or friends. But for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re taking an extended journey around the world, try taking a longer trip to places where you can save more and lowering your standards in more expensive countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It’s not logical to pick a budget hotel in a location that is miles from everything , and you’ll need to shell out more money for transportation. Look for places in central areas near public transportation, airports and other 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. There are times when you can stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Go to the hotel on Sunday
Hotels are less crowded on Sundays so you may be able 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.
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 weekends. Therefore, you can avoid tourist crowds, and also save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s not a surprise that hotels are more affordable in the off-season. If you’re able to travel during the shoulder season (between peak and off-peak) you’ll reduce costs while avoiding crowds and enjoy decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Don’t just book through the first site you discover. Compare rates across multiple sites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels offer loyalty programs where guests can accumulate points and discounts for future stays.
Make reservations early or at the last minute
Sometimes, booking early can save you money, while other times waiting until the last minute could score you a discounted rate.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you are booking directly through a hotel or holiday rental, don’t be afraid to ask for an improved rate or additional features. There’s no way to know if they might just say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Apartments, such as vacation rentals or houses, are ideal for families or groups. In many cases, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from rewards on credit cards
If you have a credit or debit card that offers travel rewards, you can use these rewards to cover lodging and save money.
Check for hidden fees
Certain booking sites or hotels may charge extra for things like resort or cleaning charges Be certain to check the fine print prior to making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many vacation and hotel accommodations offer specials or discounts for things like military personnel, students, or 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.
Find pet-friendly places
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 hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they advertise through social media. Make sure you keep up with them via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Try a house-sitting or home-swapping
Home swapping or housesitting is when you swap houses with someone else which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful way to save money on lodging while also enjoying your personal space.
Think about renting a campervan RV
If you’re traveling as a group of people hiring a campervan, or RV could be the best option to save on accommodations. In addition, you’ll have the chance to travel around the world and also have your own transportation in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers which aren’t accessible to the general people. Plus, they can do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
A hotel, flight, and rental vehicle together in a bundle deal can occasionally save money on each individual component.
Look for hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups of travelers. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels it is possible to find cozy, clean and safe alternatives.
Explore home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and distinctive accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a complete home for a large number of people.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to help you find cheap luggage
Shop at discount retailers
Discount retailers such as T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage at reduced prices. Make sure to check these stores out before you buy from a traditional department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage in the sale season’s off or at the end of the season. This is especially true for retailers of travel and outdoor gear.
Buy refurbished or used
Take a look at buying second-hand or refurbished luggage. This is a fantastic way to save money on the top brands, and you might be able to locate lightly used luggage 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 little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget, and also get amazing discounts in luggage to take on your next trip. By comparison shopping by signing up to loyalty programs, making reservations in advance or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and exploring other options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy your travels to the fullest.