1. Search multiple sites online

You should start your search online if you don’t know where you’re going to stay yet. For a quick and easy way to view a wide selection of accommodations and typical room rates, you can check these types of travel websites:

Take note of all promising options and remember to search as many sites as possible because not all accommodations and prices are listed on every site. Don’t book unless you’re already satisfied with the options that you’ve found. There are a lot of sites that you can check online if you have ample time to plan your trip.

2. Search anonymously

Set your browser to incognito or private mode when performing your search. Browsing anonymously may display cheaper prices.

3. Save time by filtering results

Use the search filters to save time on finding hotels, resorts, and hostels well-suited for your budget and needs. This is done by filtering or sorting the results by price or any criteria you choose. For example, you can:

  • Sort the price by cheapest to most expensive.
  • Only show accommodations within a price range you specify.
  • Only show accommodations of a particular type, star rating, or those that have an amenity that you want.
  • Narrow down your search to a specific district or area in a destination.
  • Go to a map view to easily find accommodations in a convenient location and near attractions you want to visit.

4. Search on accommodation comparison sites

Start with accommodation comparison sites for a quick and easy way to find potential places to stay in any destination worldwide. These sites collect data from different travel sites and lets you compare the results based on prices, ratings, location, or any criteria you choose.

Top Accommodation Comparison Sites:

5. Check rankings on review sites

Not all accommodations are listed on comparison and booking sites, but they may be posted on review sites where guests can submit ratings and experience during their actual stay. Make sure to check the top-rated accommodations and rankings in your destination for a quick way to find the best places to stay in the area.

TripAdvisor (tripadvisor.com) is one of the best online review sites. Enter your destination and search for hotels. They actually list down all types of accommodations, not just hotels. Remember to filter your search by accommodation type. Cheaper options are often listed under “B&B and Inns” or “Specialty Lodging.”

6. Visit travel guides and blogs

Checking travel guides and personal travel blogs can be a huge time-saver, especially if you do not have time to search online yourself or if you’re looking for exceptional accommodations recommended and researched by other travelers.

Search on Google by typing in your destination with the word “blog,” and then these combination of keywords: “cheap”, “hotel”, “resort”, “hostel”, “guesthouse”, “dorm”, “budget” etc.

Also, here’s a selection of helpful travel guides:

Of course, you can check recommendations on Detourista easily by search or place.

7. Check prices on booking sites

You should also check prices on each booking site individually. They may not share updated prices, special promotions, or might not even be listed on comparison sites.

Popular booking sites:

8. Check room rates directly

Before booking online, always visit the accommodation’s official website to check prices and perks if you book with them directly. Contact them directly and ask if they offer perks in exchange for booking with them directly.