Smarter Ways to Save on Accommodations
Finding affordable stays while traveling can be tricky, especially with fluctuating hotel prices and hidden fees. But with the right strategies, you can book the best accommodations at unbeatable prices. In this guide, we’ll share expert travel hacks to help you save money, unlock exclusive deals, and get the most value from your stay.
1. Book at the Right Time for Maximum Savings
Timing plays a crucial role in getting the best hotel deals.
- Best Days to Book: Studies show that Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have the lowest prices.
- Avoid Peak Season: Traveling during shoulder seasons (just before or after peak months) can slash your accommodation costs.
- Last-Minute vs. Early Booking: If you’re flexible, last-minute deals on booking apps can be 30-50% cheaper. However, for popular destinations, booking 3-6 months in advance ensures the lowest rates.
The Best Time to Book a Hotel Room, According to Travel Experts
2. Use Price Comparison Websites & Alerts
Instead of booking directly from one site, use price comparison tools to find the lowest rate. Some top tools include:
- Google Hotels – Aggregates prices across different platforms.
- Kayak & Skyscanner – Compare rates from multiple booking sites.
- Hopper – Predicts price drops and notifies you when rates are lowest.
Pro Tip: Always check the hotel’s official website after comparing prices. Many hotels offer a best price guarantee or extra perks when booking directly.
3. Unlock Hidden Discounts & Membership Perks
You might be missing out on hidden discounts that could save you big!
- Loyalty Programs – Major hotel chains like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and Accor Live Limitless offer discounted rates, free nights, and room upgrades.
- Corporate & Student Discounts – Many hotels offer discounts for business travelers, students, and military personnel.
- Credit Card Rewards – Travel credit cards often provide cashback, free hotel nights, or exclusive discounts when booking through their portals.
Bonus Tip: Some hotels offer private discounts for members who sign up for their newsletter—always check before booking!
4. Consider Alternative Stays Beyond Traditional Hotels
If you’re open to different types of stays, you can save even more:
- Vacation Rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo) – Great for group travel and long stays.
- Hostels & Guesthouses – Budget-friendly options, often with social perks.
- Boutique & Local Stays – Lesser-known hotels can offer better service at lower rates.
- House-Sitting or Work Exchange – Websites like TrustedHousesitters allow you to stay for free in exchange for pet-sitting.
Look for off-the-beaten-path stays on platforms like Accom for unique, affordable stays with a local touch.
5. Use Incognito Mode & Avoid Dynamic Pricing
Did you know hotel prices can increase each time you search? Websites track your visits and raise rates accordingly.
Hack: Always search for hotels in incognito mode or clear your cookies to prevent price hikes.
Use VPNs – Sometimes, booking from a different country gives you lower rates.
Final Thoughts: Save More, Travel More!
With these travel hacks, you’ll never overpay for accommodations again. Whether you’re booking in advance or looking for last-minute deals, knowing when and where to book can make a huge difference.
Ready to find your perfect stay? Explore budget-friendly accommodations on Accom today!