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Apart from flights, hotel accommodation can significantly inflate your vacation expenses. However, you can now easily secure affordable accommodation that won’t strain your budget. Here are a few pointers on how to book economical hotel stays:
AirBnB
If you’re not yet acquainted with AirBnB, then you’re yet to tap into cost-effective accommodation options. Through AirBnB, you can rent a room, condominium, or house from local people. It’s typically less costly than traditional bed and breakfasts since the service level is not the same. An AirBnB could be a home of a couple whose kids are in college, renting out their extra rooms to vacationers. Apart from a bed and a bathroom, the rest is primarily up to you. Crucially, AirBnB offers you the chance to book accommodations for much lesser than hotels or regular bed and breakfasts. You’ll save substantially, particularly with the special discounts offered for longer stays.
Craigslist Swap
Craigslist has a housing subsection where you can arrange temporary or long-term house swaps. However, you’ll need to exercise caution to avoid potential mishaps. My spouse and I once traded our apartment for a family’s cabin in the mountains when we were newlyweds on a shoestring budget. It was intimidating at first, but luckily, we didn’t have valuable possessions to fear losing. House swapping could be ideal for you if you’re adventurous, low on funds, and seeking a quick getaway. Just remember to set clear boundaries.
CouchSurfing
The latest economical accommodation phenomenon amongst young travelers is Couch Surfing. This costs even less than AirBnB since you only secure a place to sleep, not necessarily a room. While I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this option for solo female travelers, it may feel safer if you’re with a companion. It’s not for everyone, but it could be an unbeatable budget option that can virtually cost nothing.
Priceline
If you prefer the comfort of a conventional hotel and none of the above options appeal to you, consider Priceline. The Priceline Negotiator tool allows you to propose a price you’re comfortable paying for a hotel room, while also choosing the hotel’s star-rating and desired location. Although you don’t get to pick the specific hotel, you’re likely to land a decent one at a fraction of the standard rate. My partner and I have utilized this strategy multiple times and managed to secure four-star accommodation at just $100 a night.
