Hey there, fellow traveler!
If you’re like me, the travel bug bites hard, but so does the reality of budgeting. Let’s face it, accommodation can easily eat up a huge chunk of your travel budget if you’re not careful. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. I’ve been there, done that, and learned a ton along the way. So today, I’m going to share some of my tried-and-true tips on how to save on accommodation while still having an awesome time on your adventures.
Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or just starting to explore the world, these tips are going to help you stretch your dollars (or euros, or yen) further. Let’s dive in!
1. Start With a Plan: Research is Your Best Friend
Before you even think about booking a place to stay, spend some quality time researching. Trust me, it pays off big time. I’m not talking about just skimming through a couple of websites—I mean really digging in.
When I was planning a trip to Europe last summer, I spent hours comparing prices across different platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb, and Hostelworld. What I found out was that prices can vary wildly depending on the time of year, day of the week, and even how far in advance you book.
For instance, I noticed that Airbnb hosts sometimes drop their prices closer to the date if they haven’t filled their spaces. So, if you’re flexible, holding off a bit can sometimes score you a sweet deal. But that’s a gamble, so always have a backup plan just in case.
Tip: Use Tools Like Google Maps
When researching, I love using Google Maps to check out the area where I might stay. Is it close to public transportation? Are there good food options nearby? What’s the vibe like? I once booked a hotel that looked perfect online, but when I got there, it was miles away from anything interesting. Now, I always double-check the location to avoid those rookie mistakes.
2. Consider Alternative Accommodations
We all know about hotels and Airbnb, but there’s a whole world of alternative accommodations out there that can save you money and provide unique experiences.
Hostels: Not Just for the Young and Restless
Hostels are an awesome way to save money, especially if you’re traveling solo. I know what you’re thinking—hostels are just for backpacking college kids, right? Wrong! Many hostels these days offer private rooms and cater to a wide range of travelers.
On a trip to Japan, I stayed at a hostel in Tokyo that was more like a boutique hotel, complete with a stylish lounge and even a co-working space. Plus, staying in a hostel is a great way to meet fellow travelers and share tips.
House Sitting: A Free Place to Stay
One of my favorite travel hacks is house sitting. It’s exactly what it sounds like—you stay at someone’s house while they’re away, usually for free. In return, you might have to water the plants or take care of a pet.
I tried house sitting for the first time in Sydney, Australia, and it was amazing! I had a whole house to myself, complete with a backyard and a dog to keep me company. The best part? It didn’t cost me a cent. Websites like TrustedHousesitters.com are a great place to start if you’re interested.
Camping and Glamping
If you’re into the great outdoors, camping can be an incredibly budget-friendly option. Many national parks and campgrounds offer affordable sites, and if you’re lucky, you might find some free spots too. On a road trip through the U.S., I camped in national parks and saved a ton of money while enjoying some breathtaking scenery.
Not a fan of roughing it? Try glamping—short for glamorous camping. It’s a bit pricier than regular camping, but you still get that close-to-nature experience without sacrificing comfort. I splurged on a glamping experience in the Scottish Highlands, and it was worth every penny.
3. Travel Off-Season or Shoulder Season
Timing your trip can make a huge difference in how much you spend on accommodation. Traveling during peak season means higher prices and more crowds, which can put a damper on your trip.
The Beauty of Shoulder Season
One of the best trips I ever took was to Greece during the shoulder season (the period between peak and off-peak seasons). The weather was still fantastic, but the prices for accommodation had dropped significantly, and the crowds were much thinner. I stayed in a charming seaside hotel for half the price it would’ve been in July or August. Plus, the locals had more time to chat, and I got some great tips on hidden spots to visit.
Be Flexible With Your Dates
If you can be flexible with your travel dates, you can save a ton. I usually start by checking flight prices, then plan my trip around the cheapest days to fly. Once I have my flights booked, I look for accommodation. Mid-week stays are often cheaper than weekends, and if you’re staying for a longer period, many places offer discounts for weekly or monthly stays.
4. Book Directly With the Hotel
While third-party booking sites are great for comparing prices, I’ve found that booking directly with the hotel can sometimes get you a better deal. Many hotels offer discounts, perks, or even free upgrades if you book through their website rather than through an online travel agency.
I remember a trip to Bali where I found a beautiful resort on a booking site, but when I called them directly, they offered me a better rate plus a free breakfast every day. All it took was a quick email, and I saved enough to treat myself to a fancy dinner.
Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate
Depending on where you’re traveling, negotiating can be a great way to save money on accommodation. This works particularly well in places where haggling is a part of the culture. I’ve successfully negotiated lower rates in places like Southeast Asia and South America, especially for longer stays.
Once, in Thailand, I managed to get a 20% discount on a week-long stay at a boutique hotel just by asking. The key is to be polite and friendly—people are more likely to give you a break if they like you!
5. Join Loyalty Programs and Use Rewards Points
If you travel frequently, signing up for hotel loyalty programs can save you a ton of money in the long run. Many major hotel chains offer rewards programs that give you points for each stay, which you can later redeem for free nights or other perks.
I’m a member of a couple of different programs, and I always try to book with those hotels when I can. Last year, I used my accumulated points to book a couple of free nights at a luxury hotel in Paris. It was a splurge I wouldn’t have been able to justify otherwise, and it felt like such a treat.
Use Credit Card Rewards
Similarly, if you have a travel rewards credit card, you can use your points to cover the cost of accommodation. I’ve funded entire trips this way, using points for flights and hotels. Just make sure you’re smart about paying off your balance each month to avoid interest charges that could eat into your savings.
6. Look for Package Deals
Sometimes booking your flight and hotel together can save you money. I’m not always a fan of package deals because I like to mix and match my travel arrangements, but there are times when it can make sense.
For example, when I was planning a trip to the Caribbean, I found a package deal that included flights, hotel, and even a rental car for less than it would have cost me to book each component separately. Just make sure to do your homework and compare prices before jumping on a deal.
7. Stay Longer, Pay Less
Many hotels, Airbnb hosts, and even hostels offer discounts for longer stays. If you’re planning to stay in one place for a while, ask if there’s a weekly or monthly rate. You’d be surprised how much you can save.
During a month-long stay in Lisbon, I scored a significant discount by booking an apartment for the whole month. Not only did it save me money, but it also gave me a chance to settle in and really experience the city like a local.
Consider Work Exchange Programs
If you’re open to it, work exchange programs can be a fantastic way to get free accommodation in exchange for a few hours of work each day. Websites like Workaway and WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) connect travelers with hosts who need help with various tasks.
I spent a couple of weeks in a beautiful Italian villa through Workaway, helping with gardening and general maintenance. In exchange, I got free room and board, plus a unique experience I wouldn’t have had otherwise.
8. Leverage Social Media and Apps
We live in a digital age, so why not use it to your advantage? Follow your favorite travel brands and accommodation providers on social media. Many of them post exclusive deals or last-minute offers that you won’t find anywhere else.
I once snagged a 50% discount on a boutique hotel in Amsterdam through an Instagram promotion. All I had to do was like their post and book through the link they provided.
Apps to the Rescue
There are also a ton of apps out there designed to help you save on accommodation. Apps like HotelTonight offer last-minute deals on unsold rooms, which can be a lifesaver if you need a place to crash on short notice.
Another app I love is Hopper, which predicts hotel prices and tells you whether you should book now or wait for a better deal. It’s like having a personal travel advisor in your pocket.
9. Embrace the Sharing Economy
The sharing economy has revolutionized the way we travel. Platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Couchsurfing offer alternatives to traditional hotels that can save you money and give you a more authentic travel experience.
Airbnb and Vrbo: More Than Just a Place to Sleep
When I travel, I often opt for Airbnb or Vrbo because they offer the flexibility to choose the type of accommodation that suits my needs. Whether it’s a private room in someone’s home or an entire apartment, I love the variety these platforms offer.
On a recent trip to New York City, I stayed in a cozy studio apartment in Brooklyn that was way cheaper than any hotel in Manhattan. Plus, having a kitchen meant I could save even more by cooking some of my meals.
Couchsurfing: Free and Friendly
If you’re on a super tight budget, Couchsurfing is a fantastic option. It’s a platform where people offer up their couches (or sometimes spare rooms) to travelers for free. But it’s more than just a free place to crash—it’s about connecting with locals and experiencing a destination from their perspective.
I’ve couchsurfed a few times, and each experience has been unique. In Madrid, I stayed with a local artist who showed me around the city’s underground art scene—something I never would have discovered on my own.
10. Don’t Forget About Taxes and Fees
When booking accommodation, always keep an eye on the fine print. Taxes and fees can add up quickly and turn what seemed like a great deal into a budget buster.
I learned this the hard way on a trip to New York City. I booked what I thought was a budget-friendly hotel, only to find out at check-in that there were additional resort fees and city taxes that nearly doubled the cost of my stay. Now, I always make sure to factor in all the extra costs before booking.
Check the Cancellation Policy
While we’re talking about fine print, don’t forget to check the cancellation policy. Life happens, and plans can change. I’ve been burned before by non-refundable bookings, so now I always look for flexible options, especially when I’m booking well in advance.
11. Ask the Locals for Recommendations
Sometimes the best deals aren’t found online but through word of mouth. When you arrive at your destination, don’t hesitate to ask the locals for recommendations on where to stay. They might know of a hidden gem that’s not listed on the big booking sites.
When I was in Vietnam, a local café owner recommended a family-run guesthouse that wasn’t listed online. It turned out to be one of the best places I’ve ever stayed, with warm hospitality and a price that couldn’t be beaten.
12. Split Costs with Friends
If you’re traveling with friends, consider splitting the cost of a larger space. Renting an apartment or house with a group can be much more economical than booking multiple hotel rooms.
On a trip to Iceland with friends, we rented a house through Airbnb. Not only did we save money, but we also had a blast cooking meals together and relaxing in the hot tub after long days of exploring. Plus, splitting the cost of a rental car made the whole trip much more affordable.
13. Volunteer for a Discount
Some hostels and hotels offer discounts or free accommodation in exchange for a few hours of work each day. This is especially common in smaller, family-run places or in countries where tourism is a big part of the economy.
During a trip to Costa Rica, I volunteered at a surf camp in exchange for free lodging. I helped out with organizing activities and doing some light cleaning, and in return, I got to stay right on the beach for free. It was an incredible experience, and I even picked up some surfing skills along the way!
14. Don’t Overlook Public Reviews
Last but not least, always check the reviews before booking. Real-life experiences from other travelers can give you a good sense of what to expect. I always look for places with a solid number of reviews and a high rating, but I also read through some of the negative reviews to see if there are any recurring issues.
When I was booking a stay in Bali, I almost chose a villa that looked amazing in the photos. But after reading the reviews, I discovered that it was located near a noisy construction site. I ended up choosing a different place based on the reviews, and it made all the difference in my trip.
Final Thoughts
Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank, and saving money on accommodation is one of the easiest ways to keep your budget in check. By planning ahead, being flexible, and thinking outside the box, you can find affordable places to stay that are just as memorable as the destinations themselves.
I hope these tips help you on your next adventure! Remember, the goal isn’t just to save money—it’s to make the most of your travel experience. So get out there, explore the world, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Safe travels!