How to Snag a Hotel Deal on a Budget
Find the perfect hotel with Trivago and save money! While flights are a significant part of vacation expenses, hotel stays can also be costly. However, you can find affordable places to stay without breaking the bank. Here are some tips for booking budget-friendly accommodations:
AirBnB: If you’re not familiar with AirBnB, it’s a great way to find cheaper places to stay. You can rent a room, apartment, or house from locals, usually for less than a traditional bed and breakfast. AirBnB might be a home where a couple rents out extra rooms because their kids are away at college. You’ll get a bed and a bathroom, but the rest is up to you. AirBnB can save you a lot of money, especially if you take advantage of discounts for longer stays.
Craigslist Swap: On Craigslist, you can find a section for housing swaps, where you can exchange your home with someone else temporarily. Be careful to avoid any issues, but it can be a great option. My spouse and I once swapped our apartment for a mountain cabin when we were newlyweds and on a budget. It was a bit scary at first, but since we didn’t have many valuables, we weren’t too worried. If you’re feeling adventurous, need to save money, and want a quick getaway, a house swap might work for you. Just make sure both parties agree on the details.
CouchSurfing: CouchSurfing is popular among young travelers looking for a very cheap place to stay. It’s even cheaper than AirBnB because you usually get a place to sleep without a private room. While it might not suit everyone, especially solo female travelers, it can be a good option if you’re traveling with someone else. It’s a budget-friendly choice that might end up costing you nothing at all.
Priceline: If you’re more comfortable staying in a traditional hotel and the previous options don’t interest you, try Priceline. The Priceline Negotiator tool lets you name your price for a hotel room and choose the star rating and location you want. You won’t pick the exact hotel, but you can find a good one at a lower price. My partner and I have used this method several times, getting four-star accommodations for just $100 a night.