Travel Tips

How to Find the Best Travel Accommodation (Expert Tips)


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When travelling, one of the most important aspects of your trip is finding the right accommodation. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a cosy hostel, finding the right place to stay is essential for a memorable and enjoyable trip. Below we’ll share our expert tips on how to find the best travel accommodation, so you can say goodbye to bad stays!


The importance of finding the best travel accommodation

Finding the best travel accommodation is crucial for several reasons. First, it can greatly impact the quality of your trip. Comfortable and convenient accommodation can enhance your overall experience, while a subpar one can potentially ruin it. As well as this the right place to stay can help you to save money, time and energy, and make your trip much more memorable.


Top tips for finding the best travel accommodation

1. Start with research: where to look for travel accommodation

One of the first steps in finding the best travel accommodation is conducting thorough research. There are several sources you can leverage to find the right place to stay for your needs. Some of these sources include:

By conducting research, you can identify the various accommodation options available in your desired location and compare prices, amenities, and locations. You may also find that your first choice of hotel changes as you look around and your final choice might be an absolute gem.

Booking.com Screenshot

2. Consider your budget: Tips for finding affordable accommodation

When looking for the best travel accommodation, it’s important to consider your budget. While luxurious hotels and resorts may be tempting, they may not be practical or affordable for everyone. By setting a budget, you can narrow down your options and find a place to stay that fits within your means.

When searching for places to stay you will normally find filter options available on the website which will then allow you to set your budget so that you can see properties that match what you would like to pay.

One way to find affordable places to stay is to book in advance. This can help you secure better rates and more options since most hotels and accommodations offer early discounts. Additionally, be sure to check for deals and discounts on travel booking websites and social media platforms.

3. Location matters: How to choose the best location for your accommodation

Location is a critical factor to consider when choosing the best travel accommodation. Choosing the right location can help you to save time, money, and energy, and enhance your overall experience. When selecting the best location for your accommodation, consider the following factors:

  • Proximity to main attractions and points of interest
  • Access to public transport
  • Safety and security of the area
  • Availability of restaurants, shops, and other amenities

By choosing the right location, you can optimize your travel experience and make the most of your trip. This is one of our top and most important tips for finding the best places to stay when travelling.

You can use the map below to help you find places to stay. Generally what we do is search in locations that are centrally located near tourist attractions and/or restaurants. This will make getting out and about that much easier.

So for example in Barcelona, we might use the Sagrada Familia as a point of reference to find a central location and in New York City we might use the Empire State Building.

4. Read reviews: Why reading reviews is essential to finding the best accommodation

Reading reviews is a crucial step in finding the best travel accommodation. Reviews can provide insights into the quality of the property, the level of service, and the overall experience of previous guests.

You will often find customer reviews on most accommodation booking websites and this can help you to find know if the property would be a good option and provide the service of features that you’re looking for.

You could also read reviews from multiple sources, including online review sites and social media platforms, to get a comprehensive understanding of the accommodation.

5. Book in advance: Enjoy more options and better rates

One of our top tips for finding the best travel accommodation is to book in advance. Not only can this help you secure better rates and more options, but it can also help you avoid the stress of last-minute bookings. By booking in advance, you can also take advantage of any early discounts and promotions.

You may also find more property options available too, especially in popular destinations and in peak time, as some of the best properties may become fully booked.

6. Keep an open mind: Why being flexible can help you find the best accommodation

When looking for the best places to stay, it’s important to keep an open mind. Sometimes, the most unexpected accommodations can turn out to be the best. Such as you may choose an accommodation and find the service or atmosphere really enhance your experience. As well as this, being flexible with your travel dates and location can help you to find better rates and more options.

Be Live Collection Marrakesh Pool
Be Live in Marrakesh | Image by team / mikecleggphoto

7. Deals & discounts: How this can help you save on your accommodation

Deals and discounts can be a great way to save on your travel accommodation. Travel booking websites and social media platforms often offer exclusive discounts and promotions for their followers. As well as this be sure to check for loyalty programs and membership discounts for hotel chains and accommodation providers.

For booking.com you’ll find their main deals and discounts page here.

8. Ask for recommendations: How to get recommendations from locals and friends

Reaching out to locals and friends can be a great way to get recommendations for the best travel accommodation. You can leverage social media platforms and travel forums to connect with locals and travellers and ask for their recommendations. As well as this you can ask your friends and family for their personal experiences and tips. Knowing someone personally that had already stayed at a great place can be one of the most useful bits of information.

9. Booking directly vs. using third-party websites

When booking travel accommodation, you have the option to book directly with the hotel or use third-party booking websites. While both options have their pros and cons, booking directly with the hotel can sometimes result in better rates and more personalized service. This could be as they will save on paying a commission to third-party websites.

However, some of the benefits of using third-party accommodation websites is that they help you to see lots of property options available and compare, as well as keep all your accommodation bookings in one place and therefore make it easy to keep track.

Padma Hotel Resort, Ubud
Padma Hotel Resort | Image by team / mikecleggphoto

10. Don’t forget about Safety: Tips for staying safe in your accommodation

Safety should always be a top priority when choosing the best travel accommodation. Be sure to do your research and read reviews to ensure that the property is safe and secure. Additionally, consider the following safety tips:

  • Choose accommodations in central, safe and well-lit areas
  • Check that there are options to keep your valuables secure and locked away

11. Consider your needs: How to find accommodation that meets your specific needs

Finally, when looking for the best travel accommodation, it’s important to consider your specific needs. Whether you’re travelling with children, pets, or have special requirements, then be sure that there are accommodation options that can meet your needs. Be sure to communicate your needs and preferences with the property provider to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.


Summary

Finding the best travel accommodation is an important aspect of any trip. By conducting thorough research, considering your budget and needs, and keeping an open mind, you can find places to stay that enhances your overall travel experience. Remember to prioritize safety, read reviews, and book in advance to secure better rates and more options. With these expert accommodation tips, you can say goodbye to bad stays and hello to a memorable and enjoyable trip!

Author

Written by

Mike Clegg

Mike is a traveller, photographer, WordPress developer and the creator of TravelAndDestinations.com. He started this website so as to share his experiences and tips with travellers. He is from the UK and has travelled to many places around the world. He loves to shares his pictures and stories through Instagram and this website.

Read full bio | More articles by Mike

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First image: Room at Padma Resort Ubud

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