Travelling can break your bank if you don't plan it properly. While scoring cheap return airfares is a breeze nowadays, accommodation can take a big bulk out of your budget if there's a lack of research on your part.
If you want to get good deals and more savings to use on activities and trying out cuisines, below are tips to keep in mind when looking for accommodations.
Look for new hotels
Newly built and opened accommodations often offer discounts for new customers. No matter where it is, there are always new hotels rising here and there. You can begin your search by using Google to look for new hotels within the area that you're planning to stay in.
Get it as a bundle
Whether you're looking for hotels near Oxfordshire, London, or Edinburgh, you can always check if there are bundled offers with airfares. Most airlines offer this on their website or you can book with booking agents to save money on your travel costs. If you want to get massive discounts, you can watch out for deals on coupon sites as they already include flights, accommodations and even tours and airport transfers.
Book in advance or beat the clock
Just like airlines, some accommodations offer their rooms at affordable rates when you book early. One month in advance is the best time to book, but if you're going to a popular tourist spot, you may want to book a year in advance to lock in your spot. If they have empty rooms closer to the date, travellers who took the leap of faith will get their reward with excellent last-minute bargains.
Book directly with hotels
While booking agencies give good rates, booking directly with hotels will sometimes be better. They provide better rates and more extras to offer. If not, you can ring them up and ask if they can price match or at least give you a better deal for a room upgrade.
Good location comes with a price
Hotels in good locations close to the CBD and attractions are expensive. If you want to save on your accommodation, you can get similar quality hotels for a lesser price if you book somewhere further away. One disadvantage is the need to wake up earlier to get to where you need to but for the amount that you can save, this should be tolerable.
Check the rates
Some hotels offer cheaper rates during off-peak seasons and weekdays. Make sure that you check this as well so you can estimate how much you can save.
You also need to check the inclusions in the price that you're paying for. Some rates include buffet breakfast but if you compare it with eating at a nearby cafe, you'll save more and you'll have more options to choose from.
If your travel dates are coming close, don't waste any more time looking for hotels to stay in. As it's a significant fraction of your expenses, getting the best deals will come in handy when budgeting your money for sights to see and activities to do.
Image: https://pixabay.com/photos/hotel-guest-room-new-door-entrance-1330850/
