By MOOK Scenic Spots Home, compiled and reported
In recent years, independent travel has become a popular option for locals going abroad, and airfare and accommodation are two major travel expenses. We’ve previously shared how to score cheap flights—so what about accommodation? Here are eight money-saving tips for booking hotels. Learn them now!
Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses during a trip. (Photo /礁溪寒沐酒店)
1.Choose your type of accommodation
With the global rise in tourism and travel trends, the range of accommodation options has become increasingly diverse—from five-star hotels and business hotels to resorts, budget stays, daily rental suites, and even couch surfing. Each option comes with its own ways to save, and you can book via various hotel websites to stay updated on deals. There are also apps available for download and viewing.
2.Book early to enjoy discounts
Generally speaking, the earlier you book, the more likely you are to get a discount. Booking three months in advance usually secures an early-bird rate, but sometimes promotions can offer good prices even closer to the date. Keeping an eye on accommodation info for your destination not only helps you find your preferred place to stay but also saves you a significant amount on travel costs.
To stay in a place that matches your style and budget while traveling, a little research goes a long way. (Photo /中山逸林酒店)
3.The day of the week matters
In normal tourism patterns, prices are highest on Fridays and Saturdays—the peak booking days—while weekdays from Monday to Thursday are relatively cheaper and easier to book. However, be mindful of any special events or festivals at your destination, which could cause significant price fluctuations.
4.Accommodation location affects pricing
Generally, the more central and convenient the location, the higher the price. Conversely, places further from stations or with less convenient transport tend to be cheaper. When weighing your options, factor in transportation costs as part of the total price for comparison. For instance, staying near a station might cost more, but if a cheaper place farther away ends up with similar overall costs after adding commuting fees, you might as well avoid the hassle and choose the better option.
Weekday accommodation is usually much cheaper than weekend stays. (Photo /Kimpton Da An Hotel)
5.Watch out for extra fees
Travelers often get caught off guard by hidden charges on booking sites. Always check what’s included in your booking—sometimes breakfast isn’t included and must be purchased separately, while other places include it in the base price. Some hotels even offer free services like afternoon tea, luggage storage, or gym access. Making use of these extras can sometimes lead to big savings on your trip.
6.Join hotel membership programs
Many international hotels and resorts have membership systems. Travelers can sign up online to become members of their favorite hotels and sometimes enjoy significantly discounted member rates. You can even call or write directly to the accommodation provider—you might receive special surprises or perks such as complimentary room upgrades.
Hotel membership can sometimes get you very competitive rates. (Photo /Aman Resorts)
7.Try asking for a room upgrade
When checking in at the front desk, try asking if they can upgrade your room or switch it to a mountain or sea view room you prefer. Sometimes, if occupancy is low, staff may offer a complimentary upgrade depending on the situation. This way, you get a better experience and save on upgrade costs.
8.Travel during the off-season
If you’re not set on visiting a destination during its peak season, traveling in the off-season is the most cost-effective choice. Off-season accommodation prices can be two times lower—or even more—compared to peak season. Plus, you won’t have to deal with crowds, making it a great way to save and avoid the masses.
Buying cheap flights: Seven insider ticket-snatching tips revealed
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