Traveling with family can be an amazing experience, but it can also be expensive. One of the biggest expenses when traveling is accommodations. However, with a little bit of planning and research, it is possible to find affordable family-friendly accommodations. In this article, we will share 5 tips to help you find affordable family-friendly accommodations.
1. Look for vacation rentals
Vacation rentals can be a great option for families, as they often offer more space than traditional hotel rooms. In addition, they usually come equipped with a kitchen, which can help you save money on meals. Websites like Airbnb and VRBO offer a wide range of vacation rentals to choose from. You can filter your search based on your budget, number of bedrooms, and other amenities.
- Research family-friendly accommodations
Before you book any accommodations, do your research to find family-friendly options. Look for accommodations that offer amenities like cribs, high chairs, and family rooms. Check reviews from other families to see what they have to say about the accommodations and whether they are suitable for children. Some websites like Booking.com and Expedia have filters that allow you to search specifically for family-friendly accommodations.
2. Book directly with hotels
While booking through third-party websites can be convenient, it’s worth checking if you can get a better deal by booking directly with hotels. Some hotels offer special discounts or packages for families, and you may be able to negotiate a better rate if you speak to them directly. Booking directly with hotels also gives you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the property and its amenities.
3. Consider alternative accommodations
If you’re willing to think outside the box, there are plenty of alternative accommodations that can be both affordable and family-friendly. Hostels, for example, are no longer just for backpackers – many now offer private family rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Camping is also a great option for families who enjoy the outdoors. Glamping, or luxury camping, is a more comfortable option that can be found in many popular tourist destinations. Finally, house-sitting can be a great way to score free accommodations in exchange for looking after someone’s home and pets while they’re away.
4. Use booking platforms that cater to families
There are several booking platforms that specifically cater to families, such as Kid & Coe and Tots to Travel. These websites offer a curated selection of family-friendly accommodations, with features like high chairs, cribs, and baby-proofing equipment. They also provide helpful information about the local area, such as nearby parks and activities that are suitable for children.
5. Be flexible with your travel dates
Traveling during peak season can be expensive, so if possible, try to be flexible with your travel dates. Consider traveling during the off-season or shoulder season, when prices are lower and destinations are less crowded. You can also save money by booking your accommodations during the week instead of on weekends. Some hotels and vacation rentals also offer discounts for extended stays, so consider staying in one place for a longer period of time to take advantage of these deals.
When it comes to finding affordable family-friendly accommodations, it’s important to do your research and be flexible. By following these tips and considering alternative options, you can save money on your next family vacation and make the most of your travel experience.
Now that we’ve covered some tips for finding affordable family-friendly accommodations, let’s take a look at some of the best booking platforms to use when searching for accommodations.
1. Airbnb
Airbnb is one of the most popular vacation rental platforms, with over 7 million listings worldwide. The website offers a wide range of accommodations to choose from, including apartments, houses, and villas. You can filter your search based on your budget, number of bedrooms, and other amenities. Airbnb also offers experiences and activities that can be booked alongside your accommodation, such as city tours and cooking classes.
2. VRBO
VRBO, which stands for “Vacation Rentals By Owner”, is a vacation rental platform that offers a wide range of properties, from beach houses to mountain cabins. Like Airbnb, you can filter your search based on your budget, number of bedrooms, and other amenities. VRBO also offers a Book with Confidence guarantee, which ensures that if you can’t travel due to COVID-19, you can cancel your reservation for a full refund.
3. HomeAway
HomeAway is another vacation rental platform that offers a variety of accommodations, from beachfront condos to ski chalets. With over 2 million listings in 190 countries, HomeAway allows you to search for accommodations that suit your needs and budget. The website also offers a Book with Confidence guarantee, which allows you to cancel your reservation for a full refund in the event of a natural disaster or severe weather condition.
4. TripAdvisor Rentals
TripAdvisor Rentals is a vacation rental platform that allows you to search for accommodations based on your destination, dates, and other preferences. With over 830,000 properties in 190 countries, TripAdvisor Rentals offers a wide range of accommodations to choose from. The website also offers a Price Match Guarantee, which ensures that you get the best price for your accommodation.
5. Expedia
Expedia is a popular travel booking platform that offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, vacation rentals, and resorts. With Expedia, you can filter your search based on your budget, preferred location, and other preferences. The website also offers bundle deals that allow you to save money on flights and accommodations.
6. Booking.com
Booking.com is another popular travel booking platform that offers a variety of accommodations, from hotels to apartments. The website allows you to filter your search based on your budget, location, and other preferences. Booking.com also offers a Price Match Guarantee, which ensures that you get the best price for your accommodation.
7. Plum Guide
Plum Guide is a vacation rental platform that specializes in high-end properties. Each property on the platform has been personally vetted by the Plum Guide team, ensuring that it meets their high standards for quality and design. While the properties on Plum Guide can be more expensive than other vacation rental platforms, they offer a luxurious experience that’s perfect for families who want to treat themselves to something special.
When using these booking platforms, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be sure to read the reviews carefully before booking to get a sense of what previous guests have experienced. Additionally, be sure to check the cancellation policies and fees, as they can vary by platform and property.
