Traveling is a great way to get to know new people, explore the world, and immerse yourself in a different culture. It can also make you happier, strengthen your body and mind, and remove stress and anxiety. But traveling can also be a big expense, and many people don’t take the time to do it as much as they should.
Fortunately, there are several ways you can save money on travel, especially with hotels! Here are some of them:
Book a hotel in the right place and at the right time
A lot of travelers have been fooled into thinking that the “best” time to book a hotel is during high-season, like the summer or around the holidays. These times are popular for vacations, but they’re often more expensive than off-season options. Instead, book a hotel during low-season, which is characterized by fewer travelers and lower temperatures.
Booking at the right moment is important because prices fluctuate based on demand and supply, so you’ll be able to find deals that are more than likely to stick around. Some companies offer specials and express deals for certain dates, so be sure to check them out if you’re planning a trip that falls during these prime windows of opportunity.
Don’t forget to shop around for flight and hotel packages, too! You can find bundled offers on sites like Priceline, which lets you pick and choose from different travel options. These may include hotel-flight combos and cruises. But keep in mind that bundled packages can be expensive, and they usually don’t include everything you need for your trip.
When booking a hotel, it’s important to check in with your booking agent about cancellation policies and fees. These can vary wildly from company to company, and it’s best to be aware of them before you leave.
Real-life education
Traveling can help you learn a lot of skills that you’d never think about in a classroom setting. Whether it’s how to plan a trip, solve problems, or improvise on the spot, travelling can teach you things that can only be learned through experience.
It can also teach you how to adapt to a different culture and language. For example, if you’re traveling to a country where the language isn’t your first, you might be surprised at how quickly you learn new words and phrases!
Be sure to ask the person at your hotel for help if you’re struggling with a word, or you could even ask for a translation. This will help you communicate with the locals and feel more comfortable while you’re there, and it will save you from embarrassment later on!
Ensure that you’ve always got a copy of all your booking reservations, both digital and printed for your records. This way, you can easily rebook or cancel your accommodation if necessary.
Don’t be afraid to try a new type of accommodation during your travels, either! Depending on the type of experience you’re looking for, you might want to consider staying at a hostel or Airbnb.