30 Tips How to Save Money on Travel Accommodations

Traveloka Team
14 Jan 2025 - 5 min read

Saving on where you stay doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or adventure. With these trailblazing tips, you’ll not only keep more cash in your pocket but also unlock the potential for a more thrilling and fulfilling travel experience.

From booking in advance to finding hidden gems off the beaten path, these simple strategies can help you stretch your travel budget without compromising on the things that truly make your travels unforgettable. So, get ready to experience more, spend less, and make the most of every destination you explore!

1. Travel Off-Season

Avoid the crowds and snag great deals by planning your trips during less popular times of the year. Hotels often lower their prices when there’s less demand, giving you more budget-friendly options.

2. Use Booking Platforms Smartly

Check multiple booking platforms and compare rates before making a decision. Sometimes, directly contacting the hotel after finding a deal can even get you an extra discount. This is when you need Traveloka to assist in finding the right choice of accommodation!

3. Stay a Bit Outside the City

Accommodation just outside major tourist hubs is often much cheaper. With the money saved, you can easily cover transportation to the attractions you want to visit.

4. Opt for Hostels

Hostels aren’t just for students—they offer affordable rooms and are fantastic for meeting fellow travellers. Private rooms in hostels are also a good middle ground if dorms aren’t your thing.

5. Look for Free Cancellation Policies

This gives you the flexibility to rebook at a cheaper rate if prices drop closer to your travel dates. It’s a simple hack that can save you quite a bit. In Traveloka, you can spot free-cancellation accommodation easily.

6. Volunteer in Exchange for Accommodation

Platforms like Workaway or WWOOF connect you with hosts offering free accommodation in return for a few hours of work. You’ll also get a chance to immerse yourself in local life.

7. Consider House Sitting

Take care of someone’s home (and maybe their pets) while they’re away. Websites like TrustedHousesitters can connect you with opportunities all over the world.

8. Loyalty Pays Off

Join loyalty programs offered by hotel chains or booking sites. Frequent stays can lead to discounted rates, free nights, or other perks.

9. Use Last-Minute Booking Apps

If you’re feeling spontaneous, apps like HotelTonight can help you find heavily discounted rooms at the eleventh hour. Flexibility is key with this tip.

10. Choose Shared Accommodation

Look for shared apartment rentals where you only pay for a single room. This can give you a balance between affordability and privacy.

11. Travel in Groups

Travelling with friends or family? Rent an entire apartment or house and split the cost. It’s often cheaper than booking individual hotel rooms.

12. Be Open to Dorm Rooms

Even if you’re not keen on sharing a room, dorms in smaller hostels or boutique lodgings can be surprisingly quiet. Plus, you’ll save a bundle.

13. Book Longer Stays

Many places offer discounts for extended stays, so try to settle in for a few days or a week. It’s also a great way to explore a destination more deeply.

14. Bargain for Better Rates

Especially in smaller guesthouses or locally-run hotels, don’t hesitate to politely ask for a discount. It often works, especially during quieter seasons.

15. Sleep Overnight During Transit

Long-haul bus, train, or ferry journeys that operate overnight can save you on a night’s accommodation. Just make sure to bring something comfy to rest your head on!

16. Explore Alternative Stays

Campgrounds, yurts, and even boats can offer unique, affordable options for sleeping. You’ll get a memorable experience along with the savings.

17. Use Discount Codes

Search for promo codes or special offers before finalising your booking. They’re often available on booking sites or travel blogs.

18. Stay with Locals

Sign up for loyalty programs offered by hotels or booking platforms. These schemes often provide discounts, free nights, or exclusive perks for frequent users, which saves you money in the long run. Using Traveloka allows you to join the loyalty program and get the best deals for hotel stays, flights and many more!

19. Avoid Weekend Stays

Weekday rates are often lower than weekend rates, especially in cities popular with weekend travellers. Plan your itinerary accordingly for extra savings.

20. Skip the Frills

Be realistic about what you need from your accommodation. Choosing places without unnecessary extras like pools or gyms can cut down the price.

21. Book in Advance

Secure the best rates by booking early, especially for destinations that fill up fast during peak times. Planning has its perks!

22. Try Homestays

Staying in a local’s home can be much cheaper than hotels and often comes with a touch of personal hospitality. Many hosts even include meals or offer great travel tips.

23. Take Advantage of Student Discounts

If you’re a student, carry your International Student ID or use student travel websites to find discounted accommodation. Youth hostels often cater to this demographic too.

24. Look for Package Deals

Some travel sites bundle flights and accommodation together at discounted rates. These deals are worth exploring if your plans are flexible.

25. Ask for Discounts in Person

If you arrive without a booking, you might be able to negotiate directly with the hotel or guesthouse for a lower price. They’d rather have the room occupied than empty.

26. Use Public Libraries

Not for sleeping, of course, but libraries can be great for some downtime during the day if you’re trying to avoid returning to your room early.

27. Choose Shared Bathrooms

Opting for a room without an en-suite bathroom can bring down costs. Shared facilities in well-maintained places are often clean and perfectly usable.

28. Rent a Campervan

Combine accommodation and transport by hiring a campervan. It’s an adventurous and cost-effective way to explore destinations with good road networks.

29. Be Flexible with Locations

Don’t fixate on staying in the heart of the city. Suburbs or neighbourhoods a little further out can offer fantastic deals and a quieter stay.

30. Avoid Tourist Hotspots

Accommodations near famous attractions often have higher prices. Staying slightly farther away can provide significant savings while keeping you close to the action.

Flight to Melbourne

Tue, 27 May 2025

Jetstar

Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)

Start from AU$82.11

Tue, 27 May 2025

Jetstar

Brisbane (BNE) to Melbourne (MEL)

Start from AU$104.00

Mon, 16 Jun 2025

Jetstar

Canberra (CBR) to Melbourne (MEL)

Start from AU$81.77

Make your travel planning effortless and rewarding with Traveloka! From securing the best hotel deals and flights to booking tickets for must-visit attractions, Traveloka ensures a seamless experience with exclusive perks and unbeatable offers. Start planning your dream getaway today and unlock a world of convenience at your fingertips!

In This Article

• 1. Travel Off-Season
• 2. Use Booking Platforms Smartly
• 3. Stay a Bit Outside the City
• 4. Opt for Hostels
• 5. Look for Free Cancellation Policies
• 6. Volunteer in Exchange for Accommodation
• 7. Consider House Sitting
• 8. Loyalty Pays Off
• 9. Use Last-Minute Booking Apps
• 10. Choose Shared Accommodation
• 11. Travel in Groups
• 12. Be Open to Dorm Rooms
• 13. Book Longer Stays
• 14. Bargain for Better Rates
• 15. Sleep Overnight During Transit
• 16. Explore Alternative Stays
• 17. Use Discount Codes
• 18. Stay with Locals
• 19. Avoid Weekend Stays
• 20. Skip the Frills
• 21. Book in Advance
• 22. Try Homestays
• 23. Take Advantage of Student Discounts
• 24. Look for Package Deals
• 25. Ask for Discounts in Person
• 26. Use Public Libraries
• 27. Choose Shared Bathrooms
• 28. Rent a Campervan
• 29. Be Flexible with Locations
• 30. Avoid Tourist Hotspots

Flights Featured in This Article

Tue, 27 May 2025
Jetstar
Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)
Start from AU$82.11
Book Now
Tue, 27 May 2025
Jetstar
Brisbane (BNE) to Melbourne (MEL)
Start from AU$104.00
Book Now
Mon, 16 Jun 2025
Jetstar
Canberra (CBR) to Melbourne (MEL)
Start from AU$81.77
Book Now
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